First off; I haven't seen one yet, but have seen LOTS of sign- scat, tracks, etc!!!
Usually in the form of large tracks along the mud or sand at the waters edge, and in muddy spots along the portage trails!!!
It seems that they DO follow the same trails we do, at least often enough to leave fresh tracks on many portages that are seldom used- low traffic areas, or late season wanderings!
I portaged a trail once,that I repeatedly had to step over clumps of furry looking scat piles (crap). Apparently they like to do their duty right where they are- on the trails, while wandering along the portages. Certainly seems to me that you ought to find plenty of sign, if there are any wolves in the area!! I'm sure though that you do need to be somewhat looking for such signs, or you might walk right by not noticing anything! So look at your feet, and the trail as you are walking along those portages!! and bring a camera so that you can take the evidence home to recall to your friends later!!
I have rarely seen bear scat, or tracks! It seems that they are more likely to wander at random, and probably not follow the portage trails!!
I have heard an occasional, Late Night Howl! Usually just once or twice, so if you sleep soundly, you may not hear one at all. again- these seemed to occur very early in the morning-( 2-4 A.M.)- just about the time you're really likely to miss it- due to sleep. I've never tried to initiate a response, but I expect that if you can sound out a reasonably loud, and low pitched howl, that a real wolf may respond!! (Watch out for other wannabes, or imposters,(campers) in crowded areas!! In a desolate area, during the off season; (Fall, Winter, Spring); you are likely to be hearing a REAL live WOLF!
GOOD LUCK!!!!

Posted by guloguloguy on June 25, 2002 at 03:34
From IP address 12.221.178.168