Reproductive behaviour of wild-living wolves in Białowieża Primeval Forest (Poland)

摘要: Characteristics of the reproductive behaviour wolves (Canis lupus) were studied by radio-tracking and snow-tracking four packs in Bialowieza Primeval Forest (BPF), Poland, 1995–1999. Signs mating occurred between 12 January 22 March. Parturition 19 April May, denning period lasted for 49–64 days. During that time, used 1–3 den sites, spending on average 27 days at each site. The dens never reused consecutive years, but year after breeding sites located same parts pack’s territory. Ten before parturition pregnant females reduced their normal mobility half (from 23 to 13.5 km day−1, average). ten post-partum, they spent 85% time with pups travelled 3.9 only. On 11–30 parturition, 74% tending increased daily movement distance a mean 13.3 km. resumed full 50–70 which coincides termination weaning process. Anecdotal observations indicated tended other pack members while mother was absent. Compared years 1947–1950, 1995–1999 season BPF two weeks earlier. A possible reason 1 1.5-degree increase annual temperature during last 50 years.