She is an internationally known conservationist. The one and only Jane Goodall paid a visit to an animal refuge in North Reno on Saturday. She is most recognized from her groundbreaking work living among chimpanzees. But in this case, Goodall spent the afternoon enjoying the company of wolves at the United States Wolf Refuge in North Reno.“I've always loved wolves. I remember when I read jack London’s cry of the wolf when I was a little girl,” said Goodall. She was lecturing in Incline Village, when the opportunity came up to visit the sanctuary. The rescue was created to protect the welfare of wolves and wolf half-dogs throughout North America.
“Wolves are a very important part of the eco-system. When they prey, they prey on the sick or injured animals. They keep the population healthy,” said Goodall. “As soon as the wolf came along in Yellowstone Park, the coyote population dropped down to what it was supposed to be for that environment. Now Yellowstone Park is one of the most ecologically balanced environment in anywhere in the world,” said U.S. Wolf Refuge Director of Operations Bill Chamberlain.
Currently there are 11 wolves and half-wolves being taken care of at the Wolf Refuge. That is down from the 18 that were there last year.Most were given up by owners who realized having a wolf as a pet is a lot more difficult than they expect.“They have to give this animal up. And your local shelters and ASPCA want nothing to do with them. So therefore this location is their last hope,” said Chamberlain.
Goodall says that it is places like the refuge that make a difference in the future of our planet.“Every day every individual lives, we can make an impact. And we can choose what impact we make,” said Goodall.
Schools can schedule trips to the Wolf Refuge. The location can be reached at 775-475-0510 or bill@uswolfrefuge.org for details.
