Another look at the wolves by Garlor

Photography • Animals • posted on Sep 12, 2007

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Description

Wolves are highly intelligent animals with a complex social structure. Almost all pack members are related and this blood tie makes it profitable for the animals to work co-operatively. Pack size is restricted by the size and abundance of food as well as habitat. A fierce hierarchy exists between pack members and breeding only takes place between the alpha male and alpha female (the highest ranking male and female). Should one of the alpha pair die, chaos ensues in the pack as the original hierarchy breaks down and another evolves. Wolves well down the hierarchy will show submissive behaviour to other pack members. This is characterised by a cringing posture with the tail between the legs. A dominant animal will hold its tail high and will not be usurped by any other member of the pack.