Wolf
Last Update/Review: June 3, 2002
Canis lupus
Wolves are the largest member of the wild dog family, and may weigh up to 60 kilograms or larger. The fur is commonly grey with dark shading, but may vary in color from near black to almost white. Coats are long and dense, and ears are thickly furred. Large feet aid in travelling over snow. The wolf is distinguished from the coyote by its larger size, broader face, and less-pointed muzzle.
Wolves are social animals found in packs numbering from two to over 20. Pack size tends to be largest in winter.
In Alberta, mating usually occurs in February or March. In May, the female retires to a well-hidden den and gives birth to a litter of five to seven pups. Both parents, as well as other members of the pack, bring food to the young until they are about four months old and are ready to participate in hunts. Moose, deer, elk and caribou are the main food of wolves, but their diet may include beaver, hare, fish and some plant material.
In North America, wolves once ranged from Mexico to the high Arctic. As the continent was settled, their range was greatly restricted and numbers declined substantially. In Alberta, wolves are found in alpine, montane, foothill and mixedwood zones. Wolves are not considered rare or endangered in the province.
Trapping
In 2000-2001, Alberta trappers produced 170 wolf pelts at a mean price of $113.95 per pelt, or a total production for the province of $19 371.
Wolves are trapped from early October to late March, depending on the region. Wolf pelts are in their prime from late November to late January.
For more information about wolf biology and management go to Wolves in Alberta.
