A Howlin' Good Time at the Wolf Sanctuary

The big bad wolf. The lone wolf. The boy who cried wolf. We all know about the villainization of wolves. Our interpretation of their predatory and pack-oriented nature has brought the wolf to extinction or near extinction throughout the United States and Canada. This holds true for Maryland and Pennsylvania, with the last wolf killed in 1850.

Fast forward to now, we find wolves inching up in status, with biologists teaching us about their importance to the ecosystem. This is where we find the Darlington Family, who have committed to the care and management of the Speedwell Wolves for over 40 years at the Wolf Sanctuary. Working with gray wolves and wolf-dogs, the Wolf Sanctuary began as a rescue and stepped in to help when the Pennsylvania Game Commission needed help rehoming animals, rather than using euthanization. The Sanctuary currently houses 50 animals and uses guided tours as a way to educate and provide a more accurate and respectful image of the wolf.

The tour lasts around an hour and includes an introduction to how the Sanctuary was formed as well as some wolf facts and fiction. Moving from one pack to the next, we will meet the individual wolves, answering questions along the way. After the tour, we will drive down to Appalachian Brewing Company in Lititz for food, drink and socializing. There we'll chat with NHSM's lecturer, Nick Spero who will lead a follow-up discussion to answer your questions about what we saw at the the Sanctuary. You are not obligated to attend the lunch/speaker portion of our trip.

The Wolf Sanctuary would like us to remember these rules –

• Please wear warm boots and dress for the weather. Prepare for walking and standing. Tours and events are held outside and the walking trails are natural rocks, grass, and dirt. There is one moderately steep hill halfway through the tour. The tour is held rain, snow, or shine.
• All ages are welcome but please keep in mind your child’s ability to stay warm while standing.
• Pets are not permitted on the property, including those left in your car.
• Smoking is only permitted in designated areas.
• Alcohol is not permitted on the property.
• Running is not permitted on the property.
• Video recording is prohibited.
• Photographs are permitted with lenses no longer than five inches. Tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks are not permitted.

Cancellation Policy:  Cancellations made seven or more days in advance of the field experience will receive a refund (minus a 5% processing fee). Cancellations made within the week of the event will not receive a refund but can be transferred to a friend. No refunds will be available directly from the Wolf Sanctuary.

Please contact Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org with any questions.