Being stared down by a Grey Wolf in Banff National Park is absolutely exhilarating. Often portrayed as the “Big Bad Wolf”, there was nothing bad about this guy at all, instead it was just more of a curiosity that caused this Staring Contest between myself and this beautiful wolf. I never once thought that the wolf was looking at me like I was the next meal, because I’m not a moose or deer.

Wolves are a critical component to the Alberta Ecosystem, and are a keystone species. Their importance is demonstrated by the wolves that were taken from Jasper National Park and reintroduced in Yellowstone National Park, and the changes (for the better) that occurred in that ecosystem after the wolves arrived (well really, came back to where they belong).

The background of this image really brings out the different colors of grey in the fur of the wolf’s head, and really makes the eye stand out. This is one of the most stunning animals that I have had the opportunity to photograph.

If you are interested in purchasing this image, or any other images on my site, contact Terri Shaddick at [email protected].

Taken: May 22, 2016
Location: Banff National Park

Camera: Canon EOS 1D X
Lens: Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM
Focal Length: 400mm
Aperture: f/5.6
ISO: 2500
Exposure: 1/400