Ice Solves Mystery of How Wolves Appeared on Michigan Island

By Christine Dell'Amore, National Geographic

March 14,2015; 7:43AM,EDT

PHOTOGRAPH BY JOHN A. VUCETICH
For the first time, a wolf has been tracked crossing an ice bridge into northern Michigan's Isle Royale National Park-an impressive feat that might be a hopeful sign for the predator's ability to survive climate change.
On February 22, the GPS-collared wolf left her territory in eastern Minnesota's Chippewa Grand Portage Reservation and trotted 14 miles (23 kilometers)-the shortest possible distance to her destination-across the rugged Lake Superior ice to Isle Royale, a remote, forested island that's home to an unrelated wolf pack. (Related: "Should We Save the Wolves of Isle Royale?")
An uncollared companion of unknown gender came with her; the pair stayed on the island a few days before returning home on February 27, according to GPS data collected by Seth Moore, director of biology and environment for the Grand Portage Band of Chippewa.