Nelchina Basin Wolf Studies

Between April 1, 1975 and June 30, 1980, 103 individual timber wolves representing up to 22 different wolf packs were captured and radio-collared in Game Management Unit 13 (Nelchina Basin) of Southcentral Alaska. Cost and problems associated with helicopter darting are discussed. The 103 radio-collard wolves were individually located on 3,525 separate occasions resulting in 6,927 wolf sightings. Pack and individual wolf histories are presented and discussed.

This book assesses Alaskan wolf and bear management programs from scientific and economic perspectives. Relevant factors that should be taken into account when evaluating the utility of such programs are identified. The assessment includes a review of current scientific knowledge about the dynamics and management of large mammalian predator-prey relationships and human harvest of wildlife in northern ecosystems, and an evaluation of the extent to which existing research and management data allow prediction of the outcome of wolf management or control programs and grizzly bear management programs. Included is an evaluation of available economic studies and methodologies for estimating the costs and benefits of predator control programs in Alaska.

Between 1915 and 1955 adventure-seeking Frank Glaser, a latter-day Far North Mountain Man, trekked across wilderness Alaska on foot, by wolf-dog team, and eventually, by airplane. In his career he was a market hunter, trapper, roadhouse owner, professional dog team musher, and federal predator agent. A naturalist at heart, he learned from personal observation the life secrets of moose, caribou, foxes, wolverines, mountain sheep, grizzly bears, and wolves—especially wolves.