The wolf
Canis lupus
The wolf is one of the most adaptable animals in the world — perhaps that is why it eventually became one of humankind’s closest domesticated allies. What sets the wolf apart from other large predators is its strong social structure and characteristic howling.
In Sweden, the wolf evokes strong emotions — both positive and negative. A century ago, it was completely extinct in the country. Today, the wolf has returned and once again roams the Swedish wilderness.
About
In other parts of the world, the colour of wolves varies greatly depending on their environment, ranging from white to black. In Sweden, however, wolves share a more uniform appearance — grey sides, light beige legs, and black markings on the face, back, and tail.
The wolf is a large canine, weighing between 30 and 55 kilograms. Its paws are generally larger than those of most dogs, though the biggest dog breeds may have even bigger paws.
The tail is almost always carried downwards when the wolf is moving.
Did you know that:
The wolf is the world’s largest wild dog and the ancestor of all domestic dog breeds.
A wolf’s howl can be heard up to one mile away under good conditions.
Wolves and dogs can interbreed and produce fully fertile offspring.
The wolf usually trots at a speed of about 8 km/h.
When hunting, it can reach speeds of 60–70 km/h for short bursts and maintain around 40–45 km/h for several kilometres before tiring.
Fact
Scientific name: Canis lupus
Conservation status: Endangered (EN)
Size: Shoulder height 60–80 cm; body length 80–90 cm
Weight: 22–55 kg
Number of young: 2–8 puppies are born in May–June. At five weeks of age they start eating meat, and by 10–11 weeks they have stopped nursing. The puppies reach sexual maturity at around 20 months of age.
Conservation status
