Grey wolf (Canis lupus)

Order: Carnivora
Family: Canidae

IUCN Red List: LC (Least Concern)

I-II.

Habitat

Europe, Asia, America

Informations

The gray wolf is the largest wild member of the dog family in Europe and one of the mammals with the widest distribution on Earth, apart from humans. Its powerful muscles, lungs and heart are perfectly adapted for long pursuits. Over short distances it can reach speeds of 60–70 km/h and leap 4–5 meters, while it can maintain a speed of 45–50 km/h for 15–20 minutes before needing a longer rest.

Wolves live in close family groups known as packs. For a long time it was believed that strict hierarchies dominated wolf packs. However, modern research shows that their social structure is less rigid than previously thought. A pack is usually led by a monogamous breeding pair that cooperates closely with their offspring. Communication within the pack often takes the form of the well-known wolf howl, which signals both unity and territorial ownership.

Wolves frequently establish their dens in abandoned burrows originally dug by foxes, badgers or large rodents. These tunnels can reach lengths of up to 10 meters. The pups are born here in spring, and they are cared for not only by their mother but also by several members of the pack, who help protect and raise them.