WOLVES Researchers are discovering more about wolves every year. Direct observation of these complex and intelligent animals, advances in genetics, and sophisticated tracking devices have unlocked many secrets. But much about the wolf remains a mystery, and the adage “Never say ‘Never,’” and never say “Always” when the subject is wolves is still true.
Information provided by the International Wolf Center
W OLF Q& A What is a wolf pack? A wolf pack is a cohesive family unit consisting of the adult parents and their offspring of the current year and perhaps the previous year or two. Other unrelated wolves may sometimes join the pack. How many pups are born in a pack each year? An average litter size for gray and red wolves is 4 to 6, but sometimes fewer pups are born and sometimes more. Several or all may die if food is not readily available, or from diseases such as distemper and canine parvovirus.
How big is a wolf’s track? About 4.5 inches long by 3.5 inches wide. In comparison, a coyote’s track will be closer to 2.5 inches long by 1.5 inches wide. Only a few breeds of dogs leave tracks longer than 4 inches (Great Danes, St. Bernards, and some bloodhounds).
What do wolves eat? Gray wolves prey primarily on ungulates – large, hoofed mammals such as white-tailed deer and moose. Medium-sized mammals, such as beaver and snowshoe hares, can be an important secondary food source. Occasionally wolves will prey on birds or small mammals such as mice and voles, but these are supplementary to their requirements for large amounts of meat.
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WINTER GUIDE
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