Mating
Wolf packs usually consist of only mating between the alpha pair of the pack. Though this is usually the case, there are exceptions. An individual of the alpha pair may not be interested in mating, and in that case the beta wolf may take mating in its place. (see wolf hierarchy page) The high ranking mating pair usually stop mating between other lower ranking wolves by intimidating them when they attempt to copulate. Wolf pairs will become very affectionate with each other, and will spend most of their time together.
Wolf mating seasons are very tense for the packs. Sometimes, a wolf pair may leave the pack to avoid imitation and/or bothering during copulation. This may be a reason of lone wolves straying from their pack. (see Lone Wolf page) Alpha wolves tend to leave the pack temporarily during mating season for the same reason. Mating season lasts a few months, and when that period is over, the pack settles back in, and the tensity in the pack lessens.
During mating season, the female goes into heat every five to seven days.
Wolves mate for life, or until one of the pair dies. The mating season for Gray Wolves usually occurs between January and April. The higher the latitude, the later it occurs. A female first goes into heat about 9-10 months of age, but usually doesn't mate until after 2 years of age. Seemingly, the female is able to stall breeding until she's ready. After mating, the gestation period for a female wolf is about 60-63 days. (Please visit the PUPS page.)
Wolf mating seasons are very tense for the packs. Sometimes, a wolf pair may leave the pack to avoid imitation and/or bothering during copulation. This may be a reason of lone wolves straying from their pack. (see Lone Wolf page) Alpha wolves tend to leave the pack temporarily during mating season for the same reason. Mating season lasts a few months, and when that period is over, the pack settles back in, and the tensity in the pack lessens.
During mating season, the female goes into heat every five to seven days.
Wolves mate for life, or until one of the pair dies. The mating season for Gray Wolves usually occurs between January and April. The higher the latitude, the later it occurs. A female first goes into heat about 9-10 months of age, but usually doesn't mate until after 2 years of age. Seemingly, the female is able to stall breeding until she's ready. After mating, the gestation period for a female wolf is about 60-63 days. (Please visit the PUPS page.)
A red wolf pair