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habitat of the wolf covers huge territories from the
western borders of Russia to the shores of the Pacific
Ocean, and from the Arctic Tundra to the steppes of
Kazakhstan and Mongolia. The population of this
highly-adaptable animal has been stable for years,
and in some areas has increased, causing damage to
game and livestock. The largest animals, found in the
North Eastern tundra, may reach 2 meters (about 7 ft.)
from the tip of the nose to the tip of the tail and
weigh up to 100 kg. (220 lb.).
Wolf
hunting is an old Russian tradition. We hunt wolves
mainly in the European part of Russia in a very unique
manner, which is not well-known in other countries. When
the pack is located, it is encircled with a 2-3 mile
long tether, having the flags stitched to it every
few feet. Since it retains a human scent for several
days, wolves tend to stay within the encircled area.
When the hunters arrive, the pack of wolves is already "flagged";
therefore, the hunt must begin immediately. Preparation
takes a great deal of footwork, but the success rate
is very high. Four to five hunting days are usually
sufficient. The wolf season is opened year around,
but the best time is January-February. January
wolf hunts can be combined with driven moose and boar
hunts.
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