KidZone Animals
Wolves: General

© written by Tasha Guenther

Wolf Paw
© DLTK's Inc.

Species of wolves are among the largest of all canines! Though wolves are ancestors of domestic dogs, and look similar to dogs like the German Shepherd, they are a lot bigger and more dangerous.

Wolves are warm blooded mammals that come in different sizes and colors, and can be found all over the world. They have thick coats of fur, which keep them warm during their long treks across hundreds of square miles! Wolves have a double layer of fur all over their body that protects them from getting cold or wet.

The outside layer of their hair is called the guard hair – these hairs are quite long and coarse.  The inner layer of fur is much softer and finer, and is called the under fur.

As mentioned, wolves can travel for miles and miles, stopping rarely. This is due to their unbelievable stamina. Like horses and antelope, wolves are known to have the best stamina out of almost any animal or mammal on earth. They travel steadily across long distances due to their powerful legs, back muscles, sleek necks, and abilities. They can trot consistently for up to 10 hours a day!

Wolves live for approximately eight to twelve years, and can be found all over the world in forested, tundra, arctic, plains, mountain and desert regions.