New Pups Cedar and Rowan Join Exhibit Pack at International Wolf Center

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Giselle Narváez Rivera, Wolf Curator
Phone: 218-504-5185
Email: curator@wolf.org

Ely, Minn. – On Sunday, July 27, the International Wolf Center successfully introduced its two newest ambassador wolves, Cedar and Rowan, to the Exhibit Pack. The multi-phase introduction process followed months of socialization to ensure that the pups were comfortable with the sights and sounds of the exhibit and the visiting public. Since their arrival on May 3, our wolf care team has provided round-the-clock care for the pups.

“Even though we have successfully introduced non-related pups to adult wolves in the past, every introduction is different since each pup shows a distinct personality and each existing pack has unique behavioral dynamics,” said Wolf Curator, Giselle Narváez Rivera.

To make a smooth introduction, the Center’s wolf care staff brought the adult wolves into the pack holding area, an adjacent enclosure to the main exhibit, to meet the pups. The pups had been using this space for weeks and were more likely to feel comfortable and calm meeting the adults. This smaller outdoor space also allows the wolf care staff to monitor those initial interactions closely.

Before the final introduction on Sunday, the wolf care staff conducted two introductions on Friday, with only the dominant female, and on Saturday, with only the dominant male. “Both went extremely well, allowing the dominant individuals to have separate time with the pups and display important behaviors. Rieka regurgitated for Cedar and Rowan, an instinctual nurturing behavior facilitated by the prolactin hormone. Grayson engaged the pups with high-pitched whines, but also asserted dominance through corrections while the pups rolled on their backs in active submission,” Narváez Rivera said.

The pups are monitored round-the-clock for a week after they are introduced to the Exhibit Pack, to ensure they are adjusting well to their new home. “We have observed each adult displaying corrective behaviors when the pups’ submission turns a bit more obnoxious; this is an excellent way for adult wolves to set boundaries with younger pack mates. This may include growling, snapping, pinning, and inhibited bites,” said Assistant Wolf Curator Abby Keller. “These corrective behaviors are vital in ensuring a cohesive pack unit, and may appear more intense than they actually are. Rest assured that the wolf care team is closely monitoring these interactions.”

“We are also seeing the subordinate males, Caz and Blackstone, displaying a lot of nurturing behaviors by grooming the pups and bringing them food items,” said Narváez Rivera. “The months ahead will be an exciting time for visitors to observe and photograph interactions between adult wolves and pups.”

To learn more about the Center’s Exhibit Pack and monitor the pups’ progress, visit wolf.org to view webcams and videos.