The state of Washington still has plenty of areas where wolves can live. Wolves need adequate prey and acceptance by humans within the environment. Breeding populations in southern British Columbia and the availability of habitat south of the border probably contribute to the return of the wolf in Washington. Like people, wolves are at the top of the food chain. Both serve as population regulators for deer, elk, and other prey.
Wolves tend to prey on young, weak, or sick animals, which are easier to catch.
Generally this spares the strong and improves the overall health of the prey population. Wolves live in family groups called packs, made up of 2 to 12 or more members. A pack is governed by an Alpha pair, which is usually the only pair to breed. This pair has an average of six pups, born in early spring. Usually few pups survive the rigors of their first year.