Wolves

The wolf (Canis lupus) is the largest wild member of the dog family. Today's domestic dogs are thought to share a common ancestor with the wolf. Coat colour varies by region, from grey and brown to black and almost white.

Where does it live?

Wolves live in the forests, mountains, steppes and tundra of North America, Europe and Asia. In Türkiye they are found in many parts of Anatolia, especially in mountainous and forested areas. In recent years they have been spreading back into parts of Europe.

What does it eat?

Wolves are carnivores that hunt herbivores such as deer, roe deer, wild boar and wild goats. By cooperating as a pack, they can catch prey larger than themselves. Small mammals, carrion and sometimes fruit are also part of their diet.

Behaviour and social life

A wolf pack is usually a family: a breeding pair and their offspring of different ages. Young wolves leave when they mature to find their own mates and territories. Packs hold large territories and announce their borders to other packs by howling and scent marking.

Pups

In spring, the female usually gives birth to 4–6 pups in a den. Other pack members help feed and protect the pups.

Conservation status

The wolf is listed as Least Concern (LC) globally on the IUCN Red List, but some regional populations are small and under pressure. Conflict with people, illegal killing, road accidents and fragmented habitat are the main problems.

Fun facts

• Wolves are long-distance runners; they can cover dozens of kilometres a day while searching for prey.
• Howling is not "calling to the moon" but a way to communicate with the pack.
• By changing how prey animals behave, wolves can indirectly help vegetation recover.