In mid-August, the cub born at Petersberg Zoo in Saxony-Anhalt was moved to Eastern Styria. The female polar wolf has settled in very well and will be joined by a male at the end of August. “The groundwork has been laid for a promising new pack; in the medium term, we hope to make a valuable contribution to the breeding of this species,” explains Dr. Reinhard Pichler, veterinarian and zoological director.

Known in folklore as “Master Isegrim,” the Greek alphabet also plays a role in the history of the wolf. The alpha pair is considered the highest-ranking pair in the pack and has offspring together. In contrast, the omega wolf is last in the hierarchy. It behaves submissively and assumes a crouched posture with its tail tucked between its legs.

Wolves howl in different pitches so that other packs can estimate their numbers. Residents living in the immediate vicinity of the zoo can count on hearing a howl right on time: every Saturday, when the fire alarm sounds at noon.