N.C. Zoo Celebrates Birth Of 12 Critically Endangered Red Wolf Pups

May 18, 2021

The North Carolina Zoo has announced the birth of three litters of critically endangered red wolf pups born over three days.

red wolf pups born at zoo
Credit: North Carolina Zoo

"Three must be the lucky number because we are so happy to share that we have 3 litters of red wolves for a total of 12 puppies," the zoo wrote on social media.

The zoo now has 36 red wolves, the second largest pack in the United States.

red wolf pups born at zoo
Credit: North Carolina Zoo

"Congratulations to the North Carolina Zoo for playing an essential part in the survival of this critically endangered species," said Secretary Reid Wilson, N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, in a press release. "These births are important because many of our wolves, once matured, have been moved to other breeding packs to continue to help bring this species back from near extinction. Our hope is that more and more red wolves can soon be placed into the wild."

red wolf pups born at zoo
Credit: North Carolina Zoo

The zoo will be announcing a public naming poll for one of the litters within the next month.

red wolf pups born at zoo
Credit: North Carolina Zoo