Species

By Wolf_Kolmården.jpg: Daniel Mott from Stockholm, Swedenderivative work: Mariomassone - This file was derived from: Wolf Kolmården.jpg, CC BY-SA 2.0, 
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Canis lupus

The grey wolf is a canine native to both Eurasia and North America. It is the largest member of Canidae and has a less pointed ear and muzzle, with a shorter torso and longer tail than other species of canines. Wolves are coloured mottled white, brown, grey and black. They are cooperative hunters and have expressive behaviour. They travel in nuclear families. There are multiple subspecies of grey wolves with ZARPG officially recognizing Arctic, Sicilian, Japanese and Vancouver Island. All other wolves may be included under the general grey wolf with no subspecies.

Range: Eurasia and North America

Habitat: Forests, wetlands, shrublands, grasslands, tundra, deserts, and mountains.

Size: 12-79.4 kg (26 to 175 lb); 105-160 cm (41 to 63 in).

Life Span: 6-8 years in the wild; 14-17 years in captivity.

Feeding: Carnivore.

Reproduction: Monogamous. Dominant pairs in packs are the only members to breed. Breeding occurs between January and April. Female grey wolves choose their mates to form life-long pairs. Gestation lasts 60 to 63 days with litters of up to fourteen. Pups remain in the den until 8 to 10 weeks old. Puppies are cared for by the entire pack and are fed regurgitated food until 45 days old. Afterwards, they are weaned and are fed meat by the pack. They begin hunting with the pack at 10 months old. Females reach maturity at two years while males reach it at three. Most wolves leave their birth pack between 1 and 3 years old. 

Conservation Status: Least concern. Grey wolves do not adapt well to zoos due to their inability to preform natural behaviours and have large enough spaces. Most animals kept in zoos are unable to be rereleased or are serving for reintroduction efforts.

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Full Classification:

To read more visit Animal Diversity Web.