Sea Wolves
On Canada’s Pacific coast, a family of wolves follows the ebbing tide to feast on freshly laid herring eggs. This region is home to a genetically and behaviorally distinct population of wolves that live almost exclusively off the sea. Each spring, this family group appears at the ocean’s edge to take advantage of the seasonal bounty. Photographer Ian McAllister wanted to create a split-level shot that highlighted the wolves’ unique relationship with the ocean, so as they licked the protein-rich herring roe off the kelp fronds, he swam toward them. The curious canines approached him so closely that he could hear them grunting into his snorkel. He took several frames, then pushed back into deeper water without daring to look up.

Bella Bella, British Columbia
Ian McAllister

Ian McAllister is an award-winning photographer and author of six books, and his images have appeared in publications around the world. He is a member of the International League of Conservation Photographers and a recipient of the North America Nature Photography Association's Vision Award and the Rainforest Action Network's Rainforest Hero award.