The Velvet Fist

[kokopelle]

It is interesting to watch how the wolf-dog hierarchy works itself out. While Aurora is the senior alpha female, Wayah is the acting alpha female. It is her job to keep the puppies in line. This is accomplished by a look, a growl, and a muzzle grab. The muzzle grab is SO fast that I was blown away when I got a shot of it today. The picture below looks aggressive, but action is gentle (enough). In a way Wayah is saying, "I brought you into this world, and I can take you out". Her adopted sons listen!

Comments

[breimh.livejournal.com]

In standard wolf behavior, I have read in many sources, there is a "gamma" wolf that doesn't take on the role of the alpha, but merely assumes an alpha-like dominance with the pups to teach them what it means to be part of the pack.