EUROPEAN GREY WOLF Canis lupus lupus

Wolves are highly intelligent animals with a complex social structure. Almost all pack members are related and this blood tie makes it profitable for the animals to work co-operatively. Pack size is restricted by the size and abundance of food as well as habitat. A fierce hierarchy exists between pack members and breeding only takes place between the alpha male and alpha female (the highest ranking male and female). Should one of the alpha pair die, chaos ensues in the pack as the original hierarchy breaks down and another evolves.

Wolves well down the hierarchy will show submissive behaviour to other pack members. This is characterised by a cringing posture with the tail between the legs. A dominant animal will hold its tail high and will not be usurped by any other member of the pack.

All pack members participate in hunting. Our wolves are fed a variety of meats and vitamin and mineral supplements are given regularly. We have two wolves at present, one male and one female, recently arrived from the Scottish Deer Centre. For more information on wolf conservation and for further links contact:
The Wolf Society of Great Britain
International Wolf Centre, Ely, Minnesota