Subtypes

Photo 161788080, (c) Marcie Callewaert John, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC) https://www.inaturalist.org/photos/161788080

Canis lupus crassodon

Vancouver Island wolves can be generalized as sea or coast wolves. This subspecies of grey wolf is genetically and ecologically similar to other coastal wolf subspecies such as British Columbia wolf and the Alexander Archipelago wolf leading to the argument that they should be considered a single subspecies. These wolves are semi-aquatic and capable of swimming up to 7.5 miles between land. They forage for marine life and can also hunt terrestrial mammals. These animals come in colours of brown, grey, beige, white and black. Wolves that primarily live on islands and coastlines tend to be lighter than those that live more inland. Males tend to be larger than females.

Range: Coast wolves range extends along the entirety of the Pacific Northwest through British Columbia and along the Alexander Archipelago.

Habitat: Coastline, islands, and temperate rainforest.

Size: 29-68 kg (65 to 150 lb); 120-178 cm (47.24 to 70 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.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Full Classification:

To read more visit Animal Diversity Web.