https://youtu.be/hOLTsnPsJOI
We spent the weekend visiting the International Wolf Center (IWC) in northern Minnesota and meeting with one of our science advisors, Wolf Curator Lori Schmidt. It was great to get back to the Wolf Center to see the wolves, enjoy some education programs, and discuss some of the ideas and questions we have for WolfQuest 3. The Wolf Center was one of our original science partners from the very beginning, back in 2006, and played a critical role in the development of the original game. They even have WolfQuest kiosks onsite so visitors can try their luck at living the life of a wolf!
Even though we think about wolves pretty much all the time as we work on the game, we always learn something new when we talk to wolf experts. Lori is a fount of fascinating information, giving us insights into pup behaviors and development, den activities, wolf fighting, and much more. You’ll hear more from her in future videos when we focus on specific elements of gameplay.
And of course, seeing the Wolf Center’s ambassador wolves up close and personal is always a thrill. It was amazing to see them in their thick winter coats. Winter is actually when the wolves are the most active so if you ever have the chance to visit, pick a winter weekend! Although this pack happens to be composed of all males (and mostly unrelated, unlike in the wild), we saw all the social behaviors in play, especially at feeding time on Saturday night. It was cool to see the dominant wolves asserting themselves and the sub-adults testing and submitting (for now), and then all settling into enjoying their meal. When we returned the next morning, the wolves were lounging about in the sun digesting their tasty deer feast.
If you want to meet these wolves and learn all about wolf behavior, subscribe to their YouTube Channel. We also encourage everyone to become a member (we’re one!) and support their educational mission. Learn more at the IWC website.