Numbers, Turnover, and Social Structure of the Isle Royale Wolf Population

摘要: Observations of wolves on Isle Royale are reported for 1961–66, with interpretations including the earlier 3-year period described by Mech (1966). On this 210-square-mile island fully protected wolf population varied from approximately 22 to 28 in midwinter. The major and minor foods were moose beaver, respectively. The main pack number between 11 about three breeding pairs believed present. remained relatively stable; mating occurred every winter; adult mortality appeared be low. High among pups seemed point control. Socio-economic factors may have controlled size large pack. Availability food during parturition rearing probably was critical survival young. Recruitment young take place years high production calves. Numbers curtailed through progressive exclusion aged socially subordinate individuals. Under harassment these animals separated became pack-following scavengers, then true loners ranging outside area used Smaller aggregations two or non-breeders seen each winter, as loners, some which thin weak. The only known big a group five present winter 1965. This family unit A year later male had disappeared, remains pup, theirs, found. In 1966 alpha lame apparently killed. background appears favorable further changes social organization.