Canis lupus arctos

Arctic wolves are highly social animals, living and hunting in packs that typically consist of 5 to 7 members, though some packs may number up to 20 individuals. Their social structure is hierarchical, led by an alpha male and female. These wolves are known for their endurance in covering long distances, especially during hunts, which are crucial for their survival in the scarce tundra environment. They primarily prey on Arctic mammals, including caribou, musk oxen, and Arctic hares. Arctic wolves have adapted to their environment with behaviors and physical traits that allow them to survive extreme cold and months of darkness.

The breeding season for Arctic wolves is from late March to early May, with the alpha female typically giving birth to a litter of 2 to 3 pups after a gestation period of about 63 days. Pups are born in dens, often dug into snow banks, and are cared for by the entire pack, which helps to ensure their survival in the harsh Arctic climate.

Arctic wolves are smaller than some of their gray wolf counterparts, with adults typically measuring around 3 to 5 feet in length and weighing between 70 to 125 pounds. Their white fur not only provides camouflage but also insulation against the cold. They have smaller ears and a shorter muzzle than other wolf subspecies, reducing the amount of exposed skin to the cold air. Their thick fur and powerful build enable them to thrive in temperatures as low as -30°F.

The Arctic wolf's history is less documented than that of wolves in more accessible regions, primarily due to their remote habitat. They have lived in the Arctic for thousands of years, with little need to migrate or adapt to changing conditions until recent decades.

The Arctic wolf is considered one of the few wolf subspecies not threatened by hunting or habitat loss, mainly because of its remote and extreme habitat. However, climate change poses a significant threat to their environment, potentially impacting the availability of prey and the stability of ice platforms used for hunting. Conservation efforts for Arctic wolves are focused on protecting their habitat and understanding the impacts of climate change on the Arctic ecosystem.