Howl at the Moon Day – We used this day to learn more about wolves and the important role they play in our ecosystem. We also learned why they can be thought of as bad or evil, and why Native Americans considered them to be sacred. They are often depicted as “the bad guy” in fairy tales such as “The Three Little Pigs” and “Little Red Riding Hood”. Wolves are a misunderstood animal. They share the same DNA as dogs, a favorite family pet. They live in packs and have strong family bonds.
We are especially partial to wolves as they so closely resemble our beloved 17-year old husky! Here’s a picture of our boy:
Check out this video from National Geographic to learn more about their intimate family characteristics, observed over a 6 year period by a husband and wife team that lived alongside a pack of wolves: http://video.nationalgeographic.com/video/ng-live/dutcher-wolves-lecture-nglive
Other ways to celebrate “Howl at the Moon” day:
- Listen to wolf sounds: http://wolfpark.org/animals/sounds/
- Have your kids write a story depicting wolves as the ‘good guy’
- Draw or paint pictures of wolves, they are beautiful animals!
- Get involved in trying to help protect wolves – adopt a wolf! http://www.defenders.org/gray-wolf/what-you-can-do
- Go outside and howl at the moon with your “pack” (family)
- Enjoy a campfire under the moonlight with your family, just as the wolves enjoy spending time with their pack
