Gray Wolf Characteristics
Wolf Physiology
The Gray Wolf (Canis Lupus) is the largest member of the Canidae or dog family. They have keen senses and powerful jaws, and can run at 60km (37 miles) per hour. These traits along with their long legs, narrow chest, and large paws make a wolf especially suited for chasing prey and traveling vast distances.
Territory
Territory for the gray wolf can be quite vast. Ranging from 31 to 1200 square miles depending on the availability of prey. These territories are defended by individual packs against potential rivals, commonly other wolf packs, with intruding wolves often being killed by the native pack. These territories are marked using urine and feces.
Breeding
Gray wolf breeding season is anywhere from the middle of January to the middle of April. The average time for gestation is 63 days. Litters tend to have 4-6 pups but with a mortality rate of 40-60%.
Age
The lifespan for the gray wolf can range from 3 to 10 years in the wild depending on their habitat and natural and human dangers. In captivity they can live up to 18 years.
Sexual Dimorphism
Gray wolves can vary in size and weight from male to female. While both sexes participate in hunts, each also has its own role in the pack structure.
| Sex | Primary Roles | Length | Height | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Male | Foraging and food provisioning. | 6.6 feet (2 meters) | 26-32 inches | 80-110 lbs. |
| Female | Care and defense of pups. | 6 feet | 26-32 inches | 60-80 lbs. |