From pup to research partner
Siblings Aponi, Tuari, and Helaku were the first to arrive - two weeks later they were joined by Nara and a second trio of siblings: Denahi, Nayati, and Catori. All seven come from European wildlife parks. Over the coming months, the pups will gradually get to know their new environment and their primary caregivers. This fosters a trusting relationship between humans and animals - the foundation for the wolves to participate in scientific studies later on, stress-free and on a voluntary basis.
“Every litter brings new personalities. You quickly notice who is the brave one, who is more cautious, and who would prefer to explore everything at once,” says Scientific Director Marianne Heberlein.
Research with wolves and dogs
At the WSC, wolves and dogs live in separate groups under comparable conditions. This unique approach allows researchers from around the world to investigate questions of domestication, cognition, social behavior, and physiology. The findings make a significant contribution to placing human–wolf coexistence on a solid scientific footing. With the seven newcomers, the facility now houses 15 wolves and 10 dogs.
Seeking wolf sponsors
If you would like to accompany the pups on their journey and support the Wolf Science Center, you can become an animal sponsor. Sponsors receive exclusive insights into the daily lives and development of their protégés. Donations go directly toward the animals’ care and species-appropriate husbandry. Further information about the sponsorship program and the visitor program -including special puppy events -can be found on the WSC website.