Dear Friends,

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the death of Mexican gray wolf Alléno. He passed away this morning at twelve and a half years old.

Upon first glance, webcam viewers were captivated by Alléno’s heterochromatic eyes (one gold, one green) but his beauty wasn’t just surface level. He was a loving father of nine children and taught them to be brave yet elusive, tender yet tough. Future generations of Mexican gray wolves will bear these traits and carry on his legacy.

Alléno captured the hearts of all who laid eyes on him, but perhaps no one was more lovestruck than his devoted mate Rosa. Together for more than four years, the duo remained loyal and loving to the very end. Viewers often delighted in their gentle nose touches and tender cuddles in the sun, and found humor in their minor spats over food. Just as human couples weather the good and the bad, so too did Alléno and Rosa.

While all who loved Alléno will miss him terribly, we know that no one will miss him more than his family – Rosa and daughters Bria, Diane, and Hélène. He was their guidepost and source of solace, and their lives have surely been irrevocably changed. May they find comfort and warmth in the various sun spots that illuminate their home, and feel Alléno’s presence shining through.

RIP, Alléno. We miss you already.

Maggie Howell

WCC Executive Director