The Mexican gray wolf, or “lobo”, is one of our most endangered species. Originally these wolves were found in Mexico, Texas, Arizona and New Mexico. Intensive predator removal efforts in the late 1800’s and mid-1900’s wiped out so many wolves that a nearly complete extinction of the species occurred.

Cooperative effort between the Mexican and U.S. governments began and in 1979 the Mexican Wolf Recovery Team was formed. A captive breeding program began by capturing the remaining seven wolves found in the wild. Puppies born to captive parents are brought up to learn wild behavior by isolated them from contact with humans. This isolation enhances the chances of the pups being candidates for release back into the wild. In 1998 the first reintroduction of captive-raised pups began in Arizona and New Mexico. Since then, the wolves have demonstrated the ability to survive in the wild and to successfully reproduce and raise pups.  There are presently about 30 wolves in the wild and about 200 in captivity.  Mexican gray wolves are an SSP species and all breeding is carefully controlled for genetic compatibility.

All species of wolves have complex social structures. They live in extended family groups called packs. A pack consists of an alpha male and female, their pups, and several other subordinate or young animals. The alpha pair mate in winter and give birth in the spring. Litters can consist of one to nine or ten pups. Pups remain with their pack for at least one year while they learn to hunt.  During the second year, the pups learn how to parent when the alpha pair is raising a new litter of pups.  After their second winter, the wolves leave the pack for good to find mates and territories of their own.

Communication between pack members consists of body language, howls, and facial expressions.  Wolves develop very close relationships and adults will sacrifice themselves to protect the family unit.  Prey includes elk, white-tailed deer and mule deer.  Fossil Rim's Mexican gray wolves can be viewed on the Behind the Scenes Tours.

To learn more about the Mexican gray wolf release program, visit:
http://www.defenders.org/defendersmag/issues/summer02/wolfwelcome.html
http://www.fws.gov

Mexican Gray Wolf

Canis lupus baileyi