Wild Wolf Trots Past Unsuspecting Skier
The dangers that come to mind when skiing at the resort are primarily (and in no particular order) chairlifts, other skiers, avalanches if you ski out west, and maybe injuries from terrain, depending on where you ski.
But wolves? Not usually on the menu. Except, of course, if you're this unfortunate skier near the Flaine ski station in the Haute-Savoie department.
The video, posted by Caron Alain on Facebook on February 16th, is accompanied by a caption which translates in English (roughly) to "The wolf is not even afraid at 11:40 a.m. on the slopes of Flaine."
The skier, on the other hand, does look afraid.
Luckily, while the wolf is moving at a fast pace, and does come close to the skier, both human and wolf remain intact, with no contact had by either party.
If there's anything worse than mis-timing your session the week of a good storm with perfect powdery, bluebird windows had by all of your friends except you, it's getting charged at full speed by a wolf on the hill.
Then again, at least you're still on skis in the latter scenario.
Wolves are present in France today, but that has not always been the case: historically, wolves have been hunted, and now they are a protected species.
According to Wildlife In France, "Wolf hunting in France was first institutionalized by Charlemagne between 800–813, when he established the louveterie, a special corps of wolf hunters. The louveterie was abolished after the French Revolution in 1789, but was re-established in 1814. At the end of the 18th century, there were between 10 and 20,000 wolves in France based on estimates that showed an average of 6000 wolves killed annually."
Luckily, wolves have returned to France. "In November 1992, the return of two common grey wolves (Canis lupus italicus) was officially recorded in France, confirmed by the presence of their preys’ carcasses and wolves faeces. These wolves most likely arrived from Italy, where a protected population has been living since 1973."
The number of wolves in France today is estimated to be around 530, with an increasing population trend. They have full legal protection (with no exceptions), but some illegal killing and/or harassment due to livestock depredation still occurs.
So, is it a good sign to see a wolf? Yes. Is it still frightening when you think you are being charged at by one while skiing? Absolutely.
Related: Skiers Share Rare Encounter With Elusive Mammal
Don't miss another headline from POWDER! Subscribe to our newsletter and stay connected with the latest happenings in the world of skiing.
We're always on the lookout for amusing, interesting and engaging ski-related videos to feature on our channels. Whether you're a professional or just an amateur, we want to see your best footage and help you share it with the world. Submit your video for a chance to be featured on POWDER and our social channels. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch high-quality ski videos.
