Grey Wolf
Canis lupus
Grey wolves, or timber wolves, are the largest members of the canine family. There are currently thirty subspecies of grey wolves which include more common species like red wolves, arctic wolves, and even the dingo. Grey wolves are not just grey and can come in different morphs, or colors, ranging anywhere from a cream-white color to a darker black color. Grey wolves are highly adaptable and can survive in almost all habitats within the Northern Hemisphere and their size will depend on where they live. Today they are mostly found in the wilderness and remote areas, especially in Canada, Alaska, and the northern United States.
Click HERE for a Grey Wolf Activity Sheet!
Our Current Residents
Onyx, Male- Born on April 8, 2020
Onyx was born at Bear County USA in Rapid City, South Dakota before coming to ZooMontana in October 2020 as a companion for Simpson. Onyx is a dark black color but may also appear with patches of lighter more grey coloring. Onyx is a very curious wolf, and you can often watch him hunting anything with wheels that passes his habitat.
Simpson, Male- Born in April/ May 2020 (estimated and celebrated)
Simpson was found abandoned by his pack near Condon, Montana when he was thought to be about five weeks old. He was then brought to ZooMontana in June of 2020. After noticing some different behaviors (clumsiness and poor eyesight) and a minor altercation with another wolf, a trip to the vet would determine that Simpson has a condition known as congenital hydrocephalus, a condition that causes a buildup of fluid or water on the brain. In March of 2021, Simpson was taken to Washington State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine to have a shunt placed in his brain to drain the fluid from his brain and into his abdomen. Simpson has recovered well from his surgery and has formed his own pack with his companion, Onyx.
Taxonomy
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Mammalia
- Order: Carnivora
- Family: Canidae
- Genus: Canis
- Species: Canis lupus
Animal Facts
Carnivore: mainly eat both large (elk, deer, moose) and small mammals (rodents, hares)
Population Status (according to IUCN): currently listed as Least Concern
Montana Population Status (according to Montana Field Guide): currently listed as Secure
Habitat: rocky areas, shrubland, grassland, desert, wetlands, forest, artificial/ terrestrial
Activity: crepuscular- mostly active during dusk and dawn
