Notes on the captive wolf (Canis lupus) colony, Barrow, Alaska

The Naval Arctic Research Laboratory wolf colony at Barrow, Alaska, originated from 15 pups taken shortly after birth from dens near Anaktuvuk Pass, Alaska. Controlled breeding has resulted in 17 litters. Minimum breeding age for both sexes is 22 months. Maximum observed but not established breeding age for a Barrow colony female is 7 years and for a male is 9 years. An Anchorage, Alaska, zoo female wolf had young at 9 years. Birth dates extend from 19 May to 7 June. Rivalries, especially among females, increase just before the breeding season. Original breeding stock have passed their predominantly dark coloration to offspring.