- A canine native to the wilderness and remote areas of Eurasia and North America
- The gray wolf, Canis lupus is a highly adaptable species that is able to exist in a range of environments
- Gray wolf weight and size can vary greatly worldwide. On average, adult wolves measure 80–85 cm (31–33 in) in shoulder height
- It is a slender, powerfully built animal with a sloping back and a heavily muscled neck
- The grey wolf has very dense and fluffy winter fur, with short underfur and long, coarse guard hairs
- The fur colour of grey wolves varies geographically, ranging from pure white in Arctic populations, to mixtures of white with grey, brown, cinnamon, and black
- Wolves in northern climates can rest comfortably in open areas at −40° by placing their muzzles between the rear legs and covering their faces with their tail
- The grey wolf has a running gait of 55–70 km/h (34–43 mph)
- It feeds primarily on large ungulates, though it also eats smaller animals, livestock, carrion, and garbage
- The average pack consists of a family of 5–11 animals, with exceptionally large packs consisting of up to 42 wolves being known.
- There is a strong dominance hierarchy within each pack. The pack leader, usually the alpha male, is dominant over all other individuals.
- Wolves are highly territorial animals, and generally, establish territories far larger than they require to survive in order to assure a steady supply of prey
- The maximum life span is about 16 years
