J-TERM 2023

Course Info

The grey wolf has long excited the human imagination. Minnesota, with approximately 2200 wolves, is home to the largest and only continuous population of wolves in the lower 48 states. It is a center for wolf research. Countries around the world, as well as other states, look to Minnesota as an example of how wolves and humans can co-exist in relative harmony.

Students will work on two wolf projects during the course: one to determine pack numbers, territories, and behavior through tracking surveys near Ely, MN. The second, to determine wolf pack size, territory, and the impacts of prey species on the historic Jonvick Deer Yard along the North Shore of Lake Superior (Lutsen, MN). We will also collect data on Canada lynx in the area in collaboration with the Superior National Forest.

Other topics covered in lecture and fieldwork include:

• Wolf ecology and observation of captive wolves
• Lynx ecology and observation of captive lynx and bobcats
• Deer ecology
• Coyote & Fox ecology
• Bobcat & Cougar ecology
• Bear Ecology
• Tracking
• Research techniques
• Aerial radio telemetry
• Habitat analysis
• Winter ecology
• Winter first aid and safety
• Cross-country skiing
• Snowshoeing

Course Fee: $1,995

Please register online using the link below. A $100 deposit is due at the time of registration. Full payment is due by December 12, 2022. An airport shuttle service is available for $35 each way. Payments can be made using a credit card or check. 

All fees to Osprey Wilds are non-refundable. There are no refunds for cancellations.

Optional: Registration and credit through Carroll University

Non-Carroll University students may receive college credit for this course by completing a Visiting Student Registration Form with the following course information. Follow these instructions. 

If students have questions about receiving credit through Carroll University, please contact Lynn Novak, Director of Admission

Email: lnovak@carrollu.edu | Phone: 262.524.7620.