I kissed a wolf....and liked it!

I kissed a wolf and liked it!....or more accurately, a wolf kissed me.

    One of the amazing benefits of living in a place like Colorado is the number of incredible opportunities to experience nature, outdoors and its creatures.  Recently, I traveled to the small mountain community of Guffey where I joined 20 other photographers at the Wolf Sanctuary to have the unique opportunity to shoot (with a camera) wolves.

    There were approximately 20 wolves separated into pens housing 1 or 2 animals each.  Our large group was broken down into 4 smaller groups so we could enter the different pens and get up close and personal with the animals.  Each group had a sanctuary volunteer who gave us explicit instructions on how we should behave around these wild animals....stay close to the fence when you first enter, no sudden movements....let the wolves approach you.

   The guides suggested we might want to sit on a rock, watch and wait as the animals approached.  Of course, we all had our cameras and were trying to take photographs....I was amazed how some of these animals were so quick to check us out and proceed to rub up against us to get a better sniff.

   Soon, the wolves were wanting their ears scratched and bellies rubbed and they showed their gratitude by giving kisses (whether wanted or not).  One wolf kissed my camera lens as I was trying to get a close-up....

   One of my friends, seen below, was caught off guard by a big lick up the side of her face.

A few minutes later as I was taking another close up, a 125 lb. wolf came right up to me and gave me a very long and wet kiss right smack on my mouth and nose!  He then he rolled over and asked for a belly rub which I was happy to oblige.

     One of my favorite shots is the last one I will share.  This wolf was very possessive of his bone....such a magnificent animal.  I would encourage all of you to visit a wolf refuge or sanctuary and I will return again to enjoy their company.