HOWL!
� � � � � "The wolf's howl has been called
� � � � � �the most beautiful sound in the animal world -- resonant and
� � � � � �lingering, a seductive call, and the epitome of wildness. Wolves
� � � � � �howl at any time during the day or night. Many situations and
� � � � � �emotions precipitate this expression. Wolves howl to assemble the
� � � � � �pack, to alert members
of a threat near the den, and to locate each
� � � � � �other in a storm or in unfamiliar territory. The pack howls when it
� � � � � �is reunited after a hunt, possibly an expression of pleasure or
� � � � � �excitement. Some Native American tribes believe that wolves howl
� � � � � �after eating to summon ravens, fox, mice, coyotes, and other animals
� to pick the bones. During the winter, the time of courtship and
� � � � � �mating, howling increases as the wolf serenades its mate with a
� � � � � �jubilant invitation. On a calm night over open terrain, a howl can
� � � � � �be heard up to 10 miles away. Wolves also howl to publicize their
� � � � � �presence to a neighboring pack, declaring territorial boundaries. It
� � � � � �seems they howl just because
they like to. Whatever the reason, this
� � � � � �primeval cry has gripped the human imagination, striking terror in
� � � � � �days past and fascination today."
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