It began, as it usually does, with a question. Who is Wolf OR-7? Learning about the 7th wolf to be fitted with a radio-collar tracking device in Oregon led to the next question. Born and raised in Oregon, why have I never seen or heard of wolves here before? Why are wolves endangered? What can I do to help raise awareness about endangered species in Oregon?
Wolf OR-7 (Also named Journey by PPS students)
What followed was a 1,200-mile journey to retrace Wolf OR-7’s route by foot and bicycle from NE Oregon into California. With a small team, I talked to many people along the way who also had questions about wolves. Wolf OR-7 is an old wolf now at 11 years old and hasn’t been caught on camera for over a year. Fish & Wildlife released the news today that he has likely passed on.
While Wolf OR-7 and I never met in person, I owe a debt of gratitude to this wolf and the biologists that brought his story to the world. I can say from experience, that the chance to follow my curiosity, and get to know the story of an individual wolf was the privilege of a lifetime.
As Saturday Academy’s Classes & Camps Director, I now have the honor of supporting SA kids to follow their curiosity!
Thank you Wolf OR-7!
Rachael Pecore-Valdez
Classes & Camps Director
Follow my journey through the Wolf OR-7 Expedition documentary, free on youtube (includes adult language).