Wolf

The Wolf
 
The Wolf is a highly intelligent animal, representing loyalty, guardianship, and ritual. It is ultimate symbol of the “wild spirit” within. 

Wolves are legendary because of their spine-tingling howl, which can strike fear in the bravest of men. However, the howl of the wolf is how they communicate. A lone wolf will howl to attract the attention of their pack. Some howls are territorial in nature, and some may be a warning. Sometimes the howling begins simply because of the howling of a nearby wolf. If you hear a wolf howl it might be telling you to stand your ground and defend your boundaries.

A lone wolf embodies the energy of freedom, whereas the wolf pack embodies a sense of community. If wolf appears to you alone or in a pack it is asking you to acquire the same within your own life.  In spite of their negative press wolves are actually friendly, social and highly intelligent.

Wolves are the largest members of the dog family. Adaptable gray wolves are by far the most common and were once found all over the Northern Hemisphere. But wolves and humans have a long adversarial history. Though they almost never attack humans, wolves are considered one of the animal world's most fearsome natural villains. For this reason, the wolf is the most misunderstood mammal in nature.  They do attack domestic animals, and countless wolves have been shot, trapped, and poisoned because of this tendency.

Wolves live and hunt in packs of around six to ten animals. They are known to roam large distances, perhaps as much as 10 to 12 miles or more in a single day.  If in pursuit, the wolf might run as many as 30 or more miles in a day, making it the ultimate symbol of stamina and strength. Wolves hunt in packs, relying on endurance to run down weak and older animals.

Being extremely social and organized, wolves not only cooperate during the hunt, they share in the responsibility of raising their pups. They do not fight without cause, rather choosing to avoid conflict. Sometimes a growl, a glance, a posture is all that is necessary to determine dominance. Wolf teaches those with this medicine to know who you are and to develop strength and confidence in what you do.

Wolves convey much with their bodies. If they are angry, they may stick their ears straight up and bare their teeth. A wolf who is suspicious will lay its ears back and narrow its eyes. If a wolf ears are flat against its head, this indicates fear.  A wolf who wants to play dances and bows playfully. Their body language is symbolic for those with this medicine.  Man also uses body language to convey messages.  The study of this art can increase perception in those with this totem.

Wolfpacks are established according to a strict hierarchy, with a dominant male at the top and his mate not far behind. Usually this male and female are the only animals of the pack to breed. All of a pack's adults help to care for young pups by bringing them food and watching them while others hunt.

Wolf teaches you to have a balance between the needs of your family and the needs you have for yourself.  While they are loyal to their pack, they do not give up their individual identity. If a wolf appears in your life you are being asked to look at where you are being too dependent and where you may be too independent. Strike a balance within your family, your work and your social life.

See more at Native Bear Spirit.