On-site programs are 30 to 60 minutes in length, depending upon the group's needs
or preferences, and occur indoors unless otherwise indicated. However, when possible,
programs are held outdoors. Related, interactive group activities may be incorporated
into these programs as time and group size allow. Program content is always adapted
to the audience needs and learning level.
Wolf 101 - Meet the Pack (30 minute minimum)
Meet our ambassador wolves and learn about their physical and social adaptations
through lecture, discussion and hands-on artifacts. This is a perfect program for the
group that is visiting the Center for the first time or hasn't been to the Center in
a while. This program is also offered to the public on a regular schedule when the
Center is open. Check with us to see if it can be incorporated into your group package
without an additional fee.
Wolf Communication (30 minute minimum)
Learning wolf language is easy when students discover that communication flows through
many channels. This interpretive program describes the ways that wolves communicate
with other wolves to maintain pack structure, protect resources and hunt for food.
Videos and audio clips compliment the imagery of the interpretive program.
Wolf Physical Adaptations (30 minute minimum)
Adaptations are tools that animals and plants have to help them survive in an outdoor
environment. Unlike humans, animals must rely on the tools they are born with such as
teeth, big feet or thick fur. Learn how a wolf is adapted to its role as a predator
in the northern forest during this sometimes silly interactive program which features
an adaptation "dress up" activity.
Minnesota Wolf Research (60 minute minimum, outdoor component)
Wolves have always been present on the landscape in northeastern Minnesota. How long
have people been studying them? Discover the tools and techniques that have been used
to study wolves from the 1930s to today. A discussion on the use of tracking,
observation, data collection and radio telemetry for wolf research is followed by a
demonstration and practice with radio telemetry tools (radio collar, receiver and
antenna) outdoors on Center property.
Advanced Radio Telemetry
Is your group familiar with wolf research concepts and interested in application? Add
a Wolf Research Field Trip or Aerial Telemetry Flight to your visit!
Wolf Recovery & Management (60 minute minimum)
There was a time when wolves roamed half the globe, but now their range is dramatically
reduced. What are the factors that have influenced wolf populations past and present?
Discuss the role that humans play in wolf recovery and survival and challenge yourself
to tackle some hard to answer questions about wolf management in a decision-making
role-play activity or group discussion. Program delivery and activities vary greatly
based on the audience and learning level or interests of the group.
Wolf Folklore (30 minute minimum)
Wolves are found on several continents and in a variety of habitats. Learn where wolves
may be found around the globe and how they have adapted to diverse habitats through
imagery and discussion.
Wolves of the World (30 minute minimum)
Wolves are found on several continents and in a variety of habitats. Learn where
wolves may be found around the globe and how they have adapted to diverse habitats
through imagery and discussion.
Wolf Bingo or Wolf Jeopardy (30 minute minimum)
Here's the perfect activity to round out your visit to the International Wolf Center
and to test your knowledge after a class unit on wolves. Each activity features wolf
trivia and a little friendly competition. Wolf Bingo is suitable for children in
grades K-4 whereas Wolf Jeopardy is appropriate for participants aged ten and up.
Northwoods Ecology (30 minute minimum)
From towering pines to tiny mosses, the northern forest of Minnesota scrapes its
living from the glacial till. Held outdoors when possible, this program looks at the
flora and fauna of the coniferous biome of Minnesota which is home to the majority
of the state's wolf population. When held indoors, imagery, artifacts and discussion
are used. When outdoors, the program will be taught using artifacts and flora on the
property. You may add a short (25-minute) hike to the program.
Gray Wolf Ecology (45 minute minimum)
Ideal for groups that are already familiar with the International Wolf Center and
would like a more in depth program about wolves. This program includes physical and
social adaptations in greater detail, the wolf's role as a top-level predator in
trophic cascades in ecosystems, current management issues, and human impacts on wolf
survival.
Hunting and Feeding Behavior (30 minute minimum)
This program addresses the wolf's predatory role in nature and is a great substitute
if you are unable to attend the weekly feeding of our ambassador wolves held on
Saturday evenings. Learn about wolf adaptations and strategies for hunting prey
through imagery, discussion and optional outdoor activities.
Habitat Hike (30 minute minimum, held outdoors)
Using an on-site nature trail, see, hear and smell the flora and fauna of the wolf's
northern forest habitat on this guided walk. Discuss the various habitat needs of the
wolf and its prey as well as the complex relationship between them. Includes light
hiking on uneven natural trails for less than one mile.
Night Hike (30 minute minimum, held outdoors)
Have you ever wondered how wolves and other wildlife experience the night or what
types of tools they have to be active in the dark? Explore the unique adaptations of
nocturnal creatures through activities and a guided hike using an on-site trail.
Includes light hiking on uneven natural trails for less than one mile in the dark.
This program is not available June through August due to the length of daylight.
Do you have questions about program content?
Email us.
