Wolf Pups

Wolf Pups

Despite the belief, paired wolves aren't necessarily monogamous. Changes in partners do occur, but infrequently. In most wolf packs none of the other adults will mate and produce a litter. Though, this may occur in large packs. The pups are born underground about sixty-three days after mating. They are born blind and deaf and can't smell. They weigh about one pound. When they are about 10 days old they can open their eyes and can see. Their eyes are a blue color and wont change until later.

When they are 3 weeks old they can hear and smell and at 4 weeks the mother can leave with the pack while the pups are watched by a baby-sitter. This is about when the pups learn how they are ranked compared to each other. At 7 weeks they begin to eat solid food. The food is regurgitated chunks of half-digested meat.

When they are about 10 weeks old they are moved to the summer den and learn adult wolf talk when they are 12 weeks old. At 16 weeks they begin praticing their hunting skills. The pack leaves the summer den when the pups are 18 weeks. When they are 7 months old they are full grown and participate in the pack. Some of the offspring remain with the pack. Some leave after a year or two and become lone wolves.

Copyright © 1999-2001, by Alix.