By Ann Clements
Sixty members filled the United Church Hall on an appropriately rainy, cold
night to view local film maker, Twyla Roscovich's beautiful study of the
wolves of the Great Bear Rainforest. For two years Twyla has been
travelling to this remote coastal area to film the research of wildlife
biologist Chester Darimont from the University of Victoria and wolf
researcher Cheste Starr of the Heiltsuk Nation at Bella Bella. Together
they have produced a visually stunning film.
The wolf packs of the Rainforest are a geographically isolated population
which shows some genetic distinctions from the general wolf populations.
They appeared subtly different. They have compact, slim bodies and dense,
short fur with red highlights. The genetic variation was confirmed by DNA
analysis of wolf hair and scat gathered by the researchers.
Rainwolves also demonstrate unusual behavioural adaptations to their wet,
coastal environment. Many live on islands and have become skilled at
fishing salmon. Initially, they eat only the salmon's brain leaving the
creek banks littered with decapitated fish. But they eventually return to
finish off their catch. After two years of effort, Twyla finally caught
their nocturnal fishing on film.
Perhaps the most captivating aspect of the film for me was the views of the
Great Bear Rainforest. Enveloped in mists, the landscape seems so similar
to our own but somehow enhanced by an untouched, wild, grace. In the film
Twyla touches on the incursion of roads into this area and their potential
impact on the rainwolves.
Photo: Sherri Wretham