The timber wolf, or gray wolf (Canis lupus), is the largest wild member of the canine family. Coat colours vary from gray to brown, black or white; this camouflage helps wolves stalk prey at night. Males weigh between 65 and 175 lb (30–80 kg), while females weigh 50–120 lb (23–55 kg) and measure 4 ft 3 in to 6 ft 9 in long. Packs of timber wolves use speed, sharp teeth and claws to bring down animals such as moose, deer, beavers and fish.
Timber wolf hunts are highly regulated and depend on baiting and calling techniques. In Manitoba, outfitted wolf hunts are conducted in late February and early March when wolves pack up and become hungry. Guides pre‑bait sites six to eight weeks in advance and monitor activity with cameras, then hunters sit in heated ground blinds from dawn until dusk. Because wolves are intelligent and wary, success often hinges on patience, scent control and accurate shooting.
Gray wolves were once extirpated from much of their historic range but have rebounded in parts of Canada and the northern United States thanks to protection and reintroduction. They are apex predators that live in tight‑knit packs, maintain territories and play a keystone role in controlling ungulate populations. Wolves hunt primarily at night and travel long distances, with Canadian timber wolves capable of covering up to 70 miles in a day thanks to long legs and powerful lungs. Hunting seasons and quotas vary by province and state; hunters typically need a small‑game licence and a wolf tag.
The Canadian timber wolf stands about 32–34 inches (80–85 cm) at the shoulder and males weigh 100–170 lb. Long legs enable them to negotiate deep snow, and their thick coats protect them from the harsh Canadian winter. Wolves use howls to communicate across miles, form packs of 4–10 animals and raise pups cooperatively. Young wolves disperse at 2–3 years of age to establish new territories.
Timber Wolf can be found in the following location:
Timber Wolf has the following variations:
- (Varieties to be confirmed)
