Gray Wolf

Canis lupus

A wolf's howl can carry for up to 10 miles in open terrain, serving as a long-distance GPS to keep the pack coordinated.

Scientific name

Canis lupus

Taxonomy

Animalia › Chordata › Mammalia › Carnivora › Canidae › Canis

IUCN Red List status

Least Concern

Population trend

stable

Biome

forest

Habitat

Temperate forests, boreal forests (taiga), tundra, grasslands, and semi-arid deserts.

Diet

Carnivorous; primarily large ungulates such as deer, elk, moose, and wild boar, supplemented by smaller mammals.

Range

North America, Europe, Asia

Size

Length: 1.05-1.6 m (3.5-5.2 ft); Weight: 30-80 kg (66-176 lbs)

Lifespan

6-8 years in the wild

Active

crepuscular

Threats

Habitat fragmentation, human persecution, conflict with livestock, and vehicle collisions.

Safe to approach?

Wolves are generally defensive and avoid humans, but can be dangerous if cornered, habituated, or protecting pups. Maintain a safe distance of at least 100 yards. If encountered, do not run; stand tall, make noise, and slowly back away. In the rare event of a bite, wash the wound immediately and seek urgent medical attention for potential rabies exposure.

The gray wolf ( Canis lupus ), also known as the timber wolf or western wolf , is a canine native to the wilderness and remote areas of Eurasia and North America. It is the largest extant member of its family, with males averaging 43–45 kg (95–99 lb) and females 36–38.5 kg (79–85 lb). Like the red wolf, it is distinguished from other Canis species by its larger size and less pointed features, particularly on the ears and muzzle. Its winter fur is...

Photo: Matt Muir, CC-BY, via iNaturalist

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