Pups will be visible to the public on June 3, 2025
Ely, MN – May 19, 2025 – Two male wolf pups, born April 22, have arrived at the International Wolf Center in Ely, MN. Visitors can see the pups during daily programming beginning June 3rd.
The International Wolf Center uses science-based education to teach and inspire the world about wolves, their ecology, and the wolf-human relationship. One method for accomplishing this is through the use of ambassador wolves. By watching the Exhibit Pack, visitors see a glimpse of their individual traits as well as the social nature of the species that makes them successful as a top-level predator.
People often portray wolves for their predatory behavior and don’t appreciate the intricate pack life and social organization that keeps them together as a social unit. We strive to maintain a socially cohesive unit of wolves that act as ambassadors of their species. The 2025 pup introduction is a significant investment in our pack’s future.
The International Wolf Center is a non-breeding exhibit, so when pups are added, we collaborate with a USDA-licensed professional animal organization. The source is dependent upon reproductive plans and availability within their facility, and the Center always adopts captive-born pups.
When will the pups join the rest of the pack?
Pups are typically ready to join the Exhibit Pack at around 3 months of age (when they are roughly 30+ pounds). This can also vary depending on the needs of the pups as well as the hormones and pack dynamics of the adults. We expect that pups will be introduced in the Exhibit by the first week of August, but this is always subject to change.
When and how can we see the pups?
The pups will be part of our daily programming after they have had time to grow and acclimate. We expect their first appearance to be on June 3. Each Pup Viewing Opportunity will be 15 minutes long and is included with the price of admission; these viewings will take place outdoors and are thus weather dependent. Viewings will be scheduled to occur nearly every hour (9:45 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 12:45 a.m., 1:45 p.m., 2:45 p.m. and 3:45 p.m.). Watch the website at wolf.org for a livestream of the pups during the day from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (CT) starting on June 3 as well. If you don’t see the pups right away, check back later, your patience will be rewarded!
What will their names be?
The International Wolf Center needs your help naming the pups. You can place your votes by visiting https://tinyurl.com/pupvotes. Voting closes on June 6, 2025 with names announced on June 9, 2025.
Advance tickets are available for purchase
To purchase admission tickets, click the Book Now button on the lower left-hand side of the page at wolf.org. International Wolf Center members receive free admission.
About the International Wolf Center: The International Wolf Center uses science-based education to teach and inspire the world about wolves, their ecology, and the wolf-human relationship. For more information about the International Wolf Center, visit wolf.org.
