The howl and death of Yellowstone wolf 926F

During my first winter recording trip to Yellowstone National Park, I had an incredible encounter with the Lamar Valley Pack, watching them feed on an elk carcass, engage in play with each other, and ending with a five minute long chorus as the sun set. This encounter left an indelible mark on my desire to ensure moments like these continue to happen for well into the future for others to experience, for the health of ecosystems, and really, just for the intrinsic value.

Tragically, two years later, the alpha female, 926F, and one of the wolves I recorded that January day was shot and killed by a hunter outside the park’s boundaries. I was immensely saddened and felt a need to memorialize my time with her. This article is that memorial.