A Photographer Has A Rare Encounter With A Black Wolf And The End Results Speak For Themselves
For photographer Conrad Tan, a winter trip to Minnesota turned into the kind of wildlife moment most people only hope for. He came face to face with a rare black timber wolf, and the photos he captured show just how striking the encounter was.
Tan, who is based in San Francisco, found himself in a wildlife refuge where the animal moved through its natural habitat. Black wolves are uncommon, especially outside North America, and their dark coats come from a genetic condition called melanism.
The result was a set of images that feel almost unreal, and the black wolf absolutely steals the show.
Meet the Majestic Black Timber Wolf!

Well, Hello There!

Tan sees himself as a perfectionist when it comes to photography, and he is incredibly passionate and proficient.

Whatever that may be, Tan says he is driven by the desire to create the perfect photograph.
"There are numerous disciplines I have yet to explore in this hobby. If I can, I also enjoy assisting other photographers, as I believe it is essential to give back to the activity that has brought me so much joy." For Native Americans, the black wolf is the spirit wolf, whose presence signifies that you are about to learn an important lesson.
Tan’s perfectionism with black timber wolf shots is similar to Gilardini’s 117 hours in brutal cold for polar bear photos.
Scroll Down to Enjoy a Few More Photos of His Journey with the Black Timber Wolf!

Ain't I a Beauty?

Look at Those Eyes...
Though they are all part of the wolf family, black wolves appear distinct from gray wolves due to their dark coloration. The dark coat results from a genetic condition that increases the pigmentation of their fur.

Action Shot

Off I Go...

Phew! One might wonder what the photographer's first reaction was upon seeing the black timber wolf-it is, after all, a wild animal. In any case, did you find the above pictures stunning?
Leave us a comment or two below about this striking creature, and don’t forget to share, because sharing is caring!
Just like the man who was saved four years later by the mother wolf he rescued, check out this wolf rescue that turned into a life-saving reunion.