Number 137F, not 129F appears to be Jackson Trio alpha female

(2-25-99)


When no. 29M was first spotted in the company of radio-collared Thorofare yearling 129F, it was assumed she would be the alpha female in the pair. Views remained this way when another wolf, 137 was observed with the pair and the group was named the "Jackson Trio."

However, number 29M was recently (Feb. 19) observed mating with 137, now obviously confirmed to be a female.  Ed Bangs told me that 137F also seems to dominate 129F. The two are both believed to be from the old Thorofare Pack.

If pups are born, it will likely be in the third week of April.  It is not at all clear where the trio might den. On or near the elk refuge is a possibility.  This would be a most unfortunate situation because the elk all leave in May -- plenty for wolves turns to poverty.  Because these wolves are new to the area, they are not aware of the spring migration out of Jackson Hole. However, if they were to den just a bit back in the adjacent Gros Ventre Range or Mt. Leidy Highlands, there would be plenty of elk calves.

Meanwhile the other Jackson Hole wolves, the Teton Duo, nos. 24F and 133M continue to inhabit the ideal winter/spring/summer habitat near Moran Junction.
 

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