There's a Wolf in the Orchard!

There's a Wolf in the Orchard!

12/03/2009

Due to the widespread destruction of forests and human encroachment of their habitat, wolf populations are on the decline. The UKWolf Conservation Trust, based in Reading, raises funds for wolf conservation projects around Europe and also promotes wolf conservation through education. These educational events include wolf walks and school visits.

The nursery children at the Bedales pre-prep school, Dunannie, however, know all about wolves. Last September, a small cuddly Mr Wolf arrived, together with the new intake of nursery children.

Being new, Mr Wolf, understood what it was like for the children - settling into a new environment and learning new routines. Over the past few months, he has helped introduce them to new imaginary worlds and fired their creativity.

Last week, Nursery teacher, Penny Lawrence, invited UKWolf to come to Dunannie, literally bringing the story-book character to life. The Trust houses eight wolves which act as wolf ambassadors and Dunannie was delighted to welcome Duma into the school grounds.

An area in the school orchard was carefully sectioned off and the children watched in amazement as Toni Shelbourne, the Education Officer from the Trust brought in the 11 year old North American wolf. As well as being exceptionally beautiful, Duma is known for her calm and tolerant manner.

The children observed the wolf from a distance and were given the opportunity to ask questions. They were intrigued to discover that wolves have webbed feet and that they can hear up to a distance of ten miles away. Although as strong as two men, four year old Coco noticed that Duma 'is smaller than my Alsatian dog!'

UKWolf Conservation is a not-for profit organisation and can be contacted on.

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