Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Italian wolf

Scientific name: Canis lupus italicus


Italian wolf

IUCN Status: Near Threatened

Family: CANIDAE

Group: Mammals

Shyness: Shy

Safe distance: 50 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.02-31.03

Gestation: 62–75 jours

Births: 01.04-31.05


Habitat:
Forests, mountains, grasslands

Description:
The Italian wolf, or Canis lupus italicus, is a subspecies of the gray wolf, mainly found in the Apennines and Italian Alps. It is characterized by its medium size, dense coat, and color ranging from gray to brown. This predator plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by regulating ungulate populations. Although it was threatened with extinction in the 20th century, conservation efforts have led to an increase in its population. The Italian wolf lives in packs, with a well-defined social hierarchy. It is primarily nocturnal and crepuscular, hunting in groups to optimize its chances of success. Its communication relies on vocalizations, visual, and olfactory signals.

Recommended lens:
>=400mm

Photography tips:
To photograph the Italian wolf, it is essential to remain discreet and patient. Use a 400mm or longer telephoto lens to capture detailed images from a distance without disturbing the animal. Focus on crepuscular or nighttime hours when the wolf is most active. Camouflage yourself in the environment and avoid sudden movements. A tripod can be helpful to stabilize your camera, especially in low-light conditions. Finally, always be respectful of wildlife and its habitat.

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