National Wolf Awareness Week is observed during the third week of October and celebrates an animal that plays a key role in keeping the ecosystem healthy. Wolves help to keep elk and deer populations in check, which in turn can allow plants and other animal species to thrive.

The carcasses of their prey also help provide food for animals lower on the food chain. Unfortunately, these majestic animals face threats to their survival, and the number one threat they face is humans. That’s why it’s important for all of us to come together, not only during this week but all year round, so that we can learn how to cohabitate with these amazing animals.

The History of National Wolf Awareness Week

This week became a national event back in 1996 after the governors of dozens of U.S. states came together to proclaim the third week of October as National Wolf Awareness Week. It has been observed ever since and has become even more important as wolf populations continue to decline across the U.S.

Interesting Facts About Wolves

Let’s explore some of the fun and interesting facts we’ve uncovered about wolves while doing research for National Wolf Awareness Week. Let’s take a quick look at them before continuing with our analysis of this week dedicated to wolves.

• There are five subspecies of gray wolves in North America.
• There are twelve subspecies of gray wolves in Eurasia.
• Red wolves are larger than coyotes and smaller than gray wolves.
• Wolves can travel 50 miles or more per day in search of food.

Observing National Wolf Awareness Week

It’s up to all of us to be good stewards of the natural world, but before we can do that, we first have to understand it. That’s why we encourage everyone to learn more about wolves and the work being done to protect them.

The Wolf Conservation Center and the International Wolf Center have great information on wolves and wolf conservation that we feel everyone can benefit from reading.

It’s also a good idea to donate to wolf conservation agencies such as Wolf Haven International, Yellowstone Forever, and Defenders of Wildlife. To spread the word about National Wolf Awareness Week, we encourage everyone to also use the hashtag #WolfAwarenessWeek on social media.