The Gray Wolf is often referred to as the "Timber Wolf." There are only two species of Wolves; the Gray Wolf, and the Red Wolf. Wolves such as Arctic Wolves, Mexican Wolves, and "Timber" Wolves are all sub-species of the Gray Wolf.

Wolves are native to the Northern Hemisphere.

Wolves entered on the Endangered Species List in 1971. Wolves are classified as Endangered in 48 States. At one time Wolves ranged all over the United States but they were systematically exterminated by using traps and poison and were virtually extinct in the U.S. by 1930.

Currently there are several re-introduction programs going on throughout the United States, including Yellowstone National Park.

Wolves are very social animals and live in what is called a "pack." They have a very strict hierarchy within the pack. The "Alpha Pair" are the only ones allowed to breed within the pack. Packs can range from 2 to 25 animals depending on the size of their territory.

Wolves are full grown at 1 year of age and sexually mature at 2 years of age. Breeding can occur at that time. Breeding usually takes place from January to March depending on their territory. The gestation period is 63 days and they usually have 4-6 pups. Pups are blind and deaf until about 14 to 21 days old. They are usually weaned by 4-6 weeks.

Wolves range in a wide variety of colors from white to black and what is called grizzled which is a mix of black, white and browns.