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Den sites are typically in relatively secluded locations and within about a quarter mile from water
(Trapp 2004). In some regions, habitat features such as wet meadow systems are good predictors of
potential rendezvous sites (Ausband et al 2010). In the Cascades, rendezvous sites have been
documented in a wide variety of habitats, without any discernable patterns thus far (Gabe Spence, Ray
Robertson, pers. com.).
Field teams should consider identifying potential denning and rendezvous locations prior to heading
into the field and then carefully scouting these locations for wolf tracks and signs and potential camera
trap set locations. Using maps and satellite images, (such as through Google earth or Google maps),
identify wet meadows, wetlands, and other small clearings in forested landscapes and figure out the best
ways to access these locations.
Game trails in the vicinity of den or rendezvous locations typically get relatively heavy travel and scent
marking attention (scats, scrapes, and urine) by wolves. Rendezvous sites that have been well used will
often collect bones and parts of carcasses that have been killed in the area or brought back to the area by
adults. Once in the field, visit potential locations and check game trails into and out of the area for sign.
Consider creating a trail set on routes leading into a den or rendezvous location. For potential
rendezvous locations, setting a camera trap that observes the meadow or clearing and adding a scent
lure in the proximate area can both cover the general area and attempt to draw wolves into close
proximity to guarantee they trigger the camera. Rendezvous locations often have carcasses in the
vicinity. These carcasses could be used for camera traps as described previously.
Den and rendezvous locations are very sensitive features of a wolf pack's home range. Field teams
should work hard to minimize disturbance at these locations. For potential den locations, camera sets
should be set on travel routes close by but not actually at the location, such as on game trails 400 meters
or more away. For both potential den and rendezvous locations, setting camera traps before rather than
during the breeding season can help reduce disturbance. Some rendezvous sites are used repetitively
and for prolonged periods of time while others are ephemeral. During camera servicing trips, field teams
should reassess the area to determine if relocating a camera trap might be appropriate.
Managing Multiple Camera Traps In One Area
Camera teams are typically assigned two cameras. Follow the following criteria for setting your two
camera traps in the area you are assigned to monitor.
If there in compelling evidence of recent wolf activity in a specific location you may be directed to place
both camera sets in relatively close proximity, such as along two different trails or roads within a small
area. More typically you will be assigned a larger general area to monitor. As such, in order to cover as
