In an undisclosed American midwestern nature preserve, a group of naturalists, biologists, and zoologists watch and study a small wolf pack. Their goal is simple: by using 24/7 surveillance, learn more about the threats to wolves, the impact they have on the local environment, and clarify what interventions may best promote health of wolf packs. As such, the wolves are not named but referred to by name and number, to prevent attachments. Direct human intervention is minimized.

By the end of the first month each wolf has a nickname. Pups born prematurely are rescued, and the principal investigators are begging the team to stop camping near the pack. The study sponsors won't be happy if the scientists and conservationists are too close to their subjects!

(Unfortuantely, the prinicpal investigator is explaining this to the interns while embroidering "Rufus" into the alpha male's tracking collar, which somewhat undermines her point.)