Wolf Timbers FAQs


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How did Wolf Timbers begin?

Wolf Timbers grew out of our past directors desire to provide an opportunity for the public to see the wolf in as natural habitat as possible so that the many fears, myths, and superstitions that have been attributed to the wolf for many years can be offered a chance to be put to rest.

What do we feed the wolves?

We usually feed deer killed in car collisions. We also feed raw hamburger, Nebraska Brand Canine Diet and for treats, the wolves have received the following: Apples, watermelon, honeydews, muskmelon, ice cream, pizza, pig ears coated with peanut butter, corn on the cob, squash, to name a few.

Do we plan on getting any more wolves?

At the present time we are exploring the option of adding pup(s). More information will be provided as it becomes available.

What are the ages of the wolves?

Nira (deceased) was born April 9, 1997, Keeley was born April 21, 1997 and Ingo (deceased) was born April 22, 1999. All three wolves at Wolf Timbers were born at Wolf Park.

How were the wolves named

Nira and Keeley were named from two creeks in Northern Minnesota. In 1996, the director was in the Ely, Minnesota area and was surprised to see a free-ranging wolf on the highway. When he looked at a map, it was discovered that two creeks were in the vicinity of the area, Nira and Keeley creek. Ingo came to us with his name already set.

How do we feed the wolves

Usually, we drag in a venison carcass, accompanied by many volunteers to provide a distraction to the wolves.

Can they have puppies?

Nira and Keeley are surgically sterilized. This was a requirement from the US Fish and Wildlife Service's endangered species permit. Ingo will not be surgically sterilized.

Do they bark?

Wolves, unlike dogs, only bark sparingly. Usually it is to defend pups, a den site or food from other wolves. They will also bark and bare their teeth in an effort to communicate displeasure to other wolves - usually over an object or food.

Eye color

When wolf pups are about ten days of age, their eyes first open. Their eyes are a deep murky blue, but by about three weeks of age the pups eyes have turned a bright blue. Around six to eight weeks of age the pups eyes will turn green and finally will reach their adult color which can be anything from pale yellow, to amber or even orange or brown. Adult wolves do not have blue eyes like can be seen in some dogs such as Siberian huskies.

Have THESE wolves ever attacked people?

No. Although these wolves are still wild, socialization to humans and certain rules that we follow decrease the possibility that they will attack us. Generally, an all out attack is not that common. What usually happens is that the human that gets bitten has forgotten to follow certain rules that govern wolf packs. As human caretakers of the wolves, we must never forget that the wolves do not follow our etiquette, but there own.