Gray Wolf
Geographic Range: Historically the North American gray wolves inhabited most of the US and Canada. Now their populations are limited to areas with lower human population densities. Packs will inhabit and defend a territory from 10-100 square miles in areas of high prey density, up to 1000 square miles.
Status: Certain sub-species are still endangered.
Length: 4.5–6.5 feet
Weight: 44-150 pounds
Description: The gray wolf (Canis lupus) is a medium sized canid, ranging from 55-90 pounds for females and 70-120 pounds for males. The coloration can range from all black to all white, with a range of brown, tan and gray.
Habitat: Forest, open spaces, varies greatly
Typical Diet: Larger prey includes whitetail deer, mule deer, moose, antelope, caribou, elk and musk oxen. Small mammals make up a much smaller portion of the diet, and may include beaver, muskrat, rodents etc.
Similar Species: Tundra, Great Plains subspecies
Special Notes:
- Wolves are born brown or black, with blue eyes.
- The eyes change color as they grow – adult wolves do not have blue eyes, but can be brown, gold, gray or green.
- Coloration is generally darker on their backs and sides, white on the undersides, chin, and underside of tail.
- Breeding occurs anywhere from late January to early March.
- Puppies are born 63-65 days later
- 4-6 being an average litter size
