In Praise of Wolves

Throughout history, human beings have consistently projected their own vices onto the wolf, one of nature's most misunderstood creatures. Mythologized in folklore and fairy tales as sly, cruel, and rapacious predators, in reality wolves generally kill only for food and usually spare each other's lives. One of nature's most social animals, the wolf lives in a pack that is, despite a highly structured hierarchy, the very model of cooperation, and where such virtues as fair-mindedness and loyalty are in daily evidence. Lauded by the Humane Society of the United States as "...a significant contribution to the natural history of the wolf," this book is a rare tribute to an intelligent and affectionate animal whose mistreatment at the hands of humans has ranged over the years from slander to slaughter. Providing an unusual close-up view of a magnificent species currently under grave threat, naturalist R.D. Lawrence has written an intensely personal account of his life among the wolf that may well change our minds about this "fearsome" creature. Black and white photos.