The Daily 'Animal,' Episode 5: Wolves
Jun 30, 2024
Sam Anderson, a writer for the New York Times Magazine and animal enthusiast, journeys to Japan to visit the statue of the last Japanese wolf. He explores the profound bond between wolves and humans, reflecting on loss and memory. The narrative intertwines personal connections with cultural history and touches on the relationship between wolves and domestic dogs. Additionally, Anderson discusses the role of AI in conservation, highlighting its potential impact on wildlife protection while exploring the primal connections we share with these fascinating creatures.
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The Pilgrimage
- Sam Anderson and his team almost skipped visiting the Japanese wolf statue because people discouraged them, citing its remote location and potential anticlimactic nature.
- However, being in Japan already, Sam felt compelled to make the pilgrimage.
Gotaro, the Chihuahua
- Their driver, Daisuke, upon hearing about wolves, shared his love for animals and introduced his chihuahua, Gotaro.
- Humorously, Gotaro, despite being female, has a traditionally masculine name meaning "hard metal".
From Reverence to Extermination
- Japanese wolves, smaller and reddish-khaki, were historically revered as sacred guardians.
- However, a rabies outbreak in the 1700s and modernization in the 1800s led to their systematic extermination.