Having one more senior-aged (4+ years) wolf in a wild pack greatly increases pack survival. According to the International Wolf Center, older wolves have better learned when to fight and when to make peace. This keeps the rash youngsters from starting fights they can’t win — thus helping the pack to survive. Wolves recognize the value of the wisdom of age and they support their older members.
I’m obsessed with protecting wolves these days. Sanctuaries can help protect their gene pool. They can also save wolves from horrendous conditions imposed by some “owners.” (Believe me, you do NOT want to know the details of how cruel humans can be to a defenseless animal in their care.)
The Wolf Sanctuary of PA has rescued wolves who have been physically and emotionally damaged by humans.
This is Sarge — another great older (15-years) wolf you could “adopt” from the Wolf Sanctuary of PA. Birthdate: Jan 21, 2006, Female Gray Wolf, born at Wolf Sanctuary of PA in the Big Pack, Sarge is a female and grew up with her 2 sisters in the pack. Her sisters Chomp and Trinity have since aged and passed on. Sarge is the last remaining female in the Big Pack. She is still very strong and enjoys spending time with her family members.
This is Frodo, who lives at the Wolf Sanctuary of PA (WolfSanctuaryPA.org). He’s 15 years old, which means he’s both wise and a survivor — which I respect. The Sanctuary tells me he’s on medication for his older joints (join the club!!) and they’re watching a cataract forming in his right eye.
How long can wolves live? In the wild in Yellowstone National Park, wolves live on average 5-7 years, with just a few hitting the 9-year mark. They die from hunters (if they roam outside the park), other wolves, disease and old age. At the Wolf Sanctuary, they’ve eliminated the first two causes of death, and they treat the wolves for many diseases. They tell me the oldest a wolf has lived with them is 19 years(!)
I “adopted” Frodo in February 2021. You can adopt a wolf of your own. It’s just $55, which helps the Sanctuary cover costs at a time when visitor revenues are so reduced. They’ve got quite a few choices so you can pick a wolf that speaks to you. You get an adoption certificate and a great photo of your new family member. (Photo used with their permission.)
