There are many different types of wolf around the world. While there are only a few species, there are many different subspecies. The most abundant is the Grey Wolf, which has at least 24 subspecies across North America and Eurasia. The variety of subspecies is debated to this day, with those that subscribe to either a 2 species or 3 species evolutionary model. For the sake of this post, we will look at all of the suggested extant subspecies in our wolf size comparison.
The largest wolf is the Northwestern Wolf (Canis lupus occidentalis), a subspecies of the Grey Wolf, which can grow up to 7 ft long and 72 kg in weight! The size and weight of a wolf tends to follow Bergmann’s rule, in that the higher and colder the latitudes that they live, the bigger the wolf. Conversely, the lower and warmer, the smaller the wolf.
Here is a breakdown of the different types and subspecies of wolf, some details about their size and a few interesting FAQs.
List of Wolves and Size Facts
The Grey Wolf (Canis Lupus)
The Grey Wolf is the most populous of wolf species globally, and there are many subspecies across North America and Eurasia. While wolves can be found widely in some areas of Canada, The United States and Some areas of Europe/Eurasia, they are locally extinct in some countries, such as the UK, Ireland and much of Western Europe.
Grey Wolf species range is sizes from around 75–125 pounds. Male Grey Wolves are larger than the females and can even grow to weigh as much as 160-175 pounds in some cases. Grey Wolves stand between 27- 32 inches at the shoulder.
Wolves can appear much larger than they already are, this is because of their long fur. In winter when their fur is fully grown, their fur can be as long as 2 – 2.5 inches on their backs and sides. The hairs in their mane can be as long as 4 – 5 inches long and when stood upright, this makes them appear taller.
The length of the Grey Wolf varies between 50 and 70 inches long from nose tip to tail tip. A third of this length is the length of its tail.
- Height: 27-32 in (69-81 cm)
- Length: 50-70 in (127-178 cm)
- Weight: 75-125 lbs (34-57 kg)
- IUCN Status: Endangered in USA, (status removed by Trump Administration in 2020) Least Concern Worldwide.
Subspecies of The Grey Wolf
Tundra Wolf (Canis lupus albus)
The Tundra Wolf is found throughout northern Europe and Asia, primarily in the northern arctic and boreal regions of Russia and Finland. Consistent with Bergmann’s Rule, tundra wolves are among the largest of grey wolf subspecies.
Males are usually larger than females, and most tundra wolves have a grey color, with mixes of black, rust and silver grey. Their tail is bushy and their coat has a thick, dense underfur.
Tundra Wolves can grow to around 112-137 cm (44-54 inches) in length on average, but larger wolves rivalling the size of the Eurasian Wolf and Arctic Wolf have also been reported. They can stand as tall as 38 inches and weight between 36 and 49 kg. Again, there are examples that have been larger than this but the norm is within this range. Males are generally larger and heavier than females.
Despite being vulnerable to the fur trade, Tundra Wolves are currently listed as a species of least concern.
- Height: 32-38 in (82-96 cm)
- Length: 44-54 in (112-137 cm)
- Weight: 79-108 lbs (36-49 kg)
- IUCN Status: Least Concern
Arabian Wolf (Canis lupus arabs)
The Arabian Wolf is one of the lower-latitude living subspecies of the Grey Wolf. They are native to ranges around the Arabian and Sinai peninsulas, and also Jordan. They were once widespread across this range, but only exist in a few small areas today.
They have adapted to the desert conditions and are the smallest subspecies of wolf. Their size likely helps then to adapt to their hot environment, and is a classical example of the Bergmann rule in nature.
The Arabian wolf is an omnivore, surviving on mostly small to medium sized desert-dwelling prey. They have large ears, and a short, thin beige to grey coat. These wolves measure around 25–26 inches (64–66 cm) at shoulder height, but information about their length is illusive. It can be assumed however, that as these are the smallest wolves, they are shorter than the Ethiopian wolf at 84-100 cm from nose to tail. Average weight is around 40-45 lbs (18-20.5 kg).
The Arabian Wolf is listed as endangered, and has become extinct in some countries, notably the UAE. They are protected by law in Saudi Arabia.
- Height: 25–26 in (64–66 cm)
- Length: Less than 33-40 in (84-100 cm)
- Weight: 40-45 lbs (18-20.5 kg)
- IUCN Status: Endangered
Arctic Wolf (Canis lupus arctos)
Arctic Wolves inhabit the Canadian Arctic (particularly the Queen Elizabeth Islands) and the northern parts of Greenland. The Arctic Wolf and the Timber Wolf are the only subspecies of the Grey Wolf that still can be found over the whole of its original range, largely because in their natural habitat they rarely encounter humans.
These wolves have white fur, a bushy tail and long ‘lanky’ legs. They have small ears which help to conserve heat. They are sometimes known as the white or polar wolf.
Arctic Wolves tend to be smaller than Grey Wolves, measuring around 3 to 6 feet (0.9 to 1.8 metres) long including the tail. Male Arctic Wolves are larger than female Arctic Wolves. Their shoulder heights vary from 25 to 31 inches (63 to 79 centimetres).
While they are smaller than Grey Wolves, they are generally bulkier, often weighing over 100 pounds (45 kilograms). Weights of up to 175 pounds (80 kilograms) have been observed in full-grown males.
- Height: 25-31 in (63-79 cm)
- Length: 3-6 ft (91-183 cm)
- Weight: 100-175 lbs (45-80 kg)
- IUCN Status: Least Concern
Mexican Wolf (Canis lupus baileyi)
The Mexican Wolf is one of the rarest, most genetically distinct subspecies of the Grey Wolf in North America.
Commonly referred to as ‘El lobo’, the Mexican wolf is grey with light brown fur on its back. The coat provides excellent camouflage in forested areas. They also have long legs and a sleek body which enables them to run very fast, and a superior sense of smell.
It is one of the smallest subspecies of North American grey wolves, reaching an overall length no greater than 135-167 centimetres from nose to tail. They grow to around a height of 80 centimetres at the shoulder, and their weight ranges from 23– 40 kilograms.
Mexican Wolves are the most endangered of the Grey Wolves, listed as critical by the IUCN. In 2022, it was reported that around 45 Mexican Wolves are living wild in Mexico, and around 196 in Arizona and New Mexico.
- Height: 28-32 in (71-81 cm)
- Length: 53-66 in (135-167 cm)
- Weight: 50-88 lbs (23-40 kg)
- IUCN Status: Critically Endangered
Steppe Wolf (Canis lupus campestris)
The Steppe Wolf can be found around the Caspian Steppes region in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. Particularly around the Caucasus region, Kazakhstan, Romania and Hungary. It is also sometimes known as the Caspian Sea Wolf. While villagers are known to keep them as guard animals in Kazakhstan, they are known to carry rabies.
Historically, the Steppe Wolf would have shared some territory with the Eurasian Wolf, but the Steppe is the smaller of the two. There is a novel, a band and a DC comic book villain named after this Wolf, in the German ‘Steppenwolf‘.
The Steppe Wolf has a short, rough coat and guard hair, with light grey sides and a mix of black, grey and brown hair on their back. The color does vary from region to region. They weight between 77-88 pounds on average, and grow to about 120-123 centimetres (46.5-48 inches) long and 65-70 centimetres (26-28 inches) tall at shoulder height.
- Height: 26-28 in (65-70 cm)
- Length: 46.5-48 in (120-123 cm)
- Weight: 77-88 lbs (35–40 kg)
- IUCN Status: Not Listed, however is listed as Near Threatened on the Mongolian Red List Of Mammals.
Mongolian Wolf/Tibetan Wolf (Canis lupus chanco)
The Mongolian Wolf, also known as the Tibetan Wolf, is native to Mongolia and the surrounding areas of North China, Southeastern Russia and Korea. In Mongolia they are often hunted for their fur, but natives have a generally positive relationship with these animals. Canid species are seen as spiritual animals, and as members of the family, and this applies to wolves as well as dogs.
Despite some reports, they are not currently listed as a species of concern on the IUCN red list. There are believed to be around 70,000 of these wolves in the wild across their range. Of this, 10,000-20,000 are thought to live in Mongolia.
There are extensive data available for the size and weight of these wolves. At the shoulders, the Mongolian Wolf stands between 22-35 inches (57-89 cm) tall. They have a length of 35-62 in (90-158 cm) and a body weight of between 49-82 pounds (22-37 kg). Males are generally larger and heavier than females.
- Height: 22-35 in (57-89 cm)
- Length: 35-62 in (90-158 cm)
- Weight: 49-82 lbs (22-37 kg)
- IUCN Status: Not Listed
British Columbia Wolf (Canis lupus columbianus)
The British Columbia Wolf is a large, dark coated subspecies of the Grey Wolf that can be regionally found around Western Areas of Canada and the USA. Particularly specific areas of Alaska, British Colombia and Vancouver Island. It was identified as a subspecies in 1941 by Edward Goldman, but has since been considered to be assigned a new Canis lupus designation combined with two other local, genetically similar wolves.
The fur of the British Columbia Wolf is dark, mostly black but can contain brown and grey fur in the mix too. They are one of the largest subspecies of Grey Wolf, with an average length of 60-70 inches (152-178 cm) and a weight between 80-150 pounds (36-68 kg). Average height data of this wolf is elusive, but we know it is one of the larger subspecies of the Grey Wolf.
- Height: Data Deficient
- Length: 60-70 inches (152-178 cm)
- Weight: 80-150 lbs (36-68 kg)
- IUCN Status: Not Listed, though on the NatureServe Conservation Status list, they are categorised as level T4 for ‘apparently stable’.
Vancouver Island Wolf (Canis lupus crassodon)
The Vancouver Island Sea Wolf is native to a small part of West Coast of Canada. Particularly around the Great Bear Rainforest, and the northern part of Vancouver Island. There are also some in the South East of Alaska.
Also sometimes referred to as the Vancouver Coastal Sea Wolf, there are two populations of this wolf, the island coastal wolves, and the mainland coastal wolves. They are different to their relatives that live inland. For a start, these wolves live mostly on seafood (the island population more than the mainland), and they are exceptional swimmers. Vancouver Island is several miles from the mainland and these wolves have been known to swim between the two.
They look similar to other northern subspecies, with variations of black, brown and grey in their thick coats. But they may also be white. They are also usually a bit smaller than the other species of wolf that they share territory with, like the British Columbia Wolf. It is thought that their specific seafood diet plays a part in the size difference.
The Vancouver Island Wolf stands around 26-32 inches at the shoulders, and between 48 and 60 inches (122-152 cm) long including the tail. They weigh between 60 to 90 pounds, (28 and 42 kg) and males tend to be larger than females.
- Height: 26-32 in (66-81 cm)
- Length: 48-60 in (122-152 cm)
- Weight: 60-90 lbs, (28-42 kg)
- IUCN Status: Least Concern – Though populations are low (estimated at 150).
Hudson Bay Wolf (Canis lupus hudsonicus)
The Hudson Bay Wolf is native to Nunavut area in the North East of Canada. Particularly around the Northwestern coastal area of Hudson Bay. It is visually similar to the Mackenzie River Wolf, and the Arctic Wolf only smaller in size and with a flatter skull.
This wolf can vary between a light grey or white/cream with a yellow tint. It has a great sense of smell. They live on large Ungulates such as caribou, moose and bison when available, carrion and small prey when they are not. The Hudson Bay Wolf is also known to travel south to follow the caribou seasonally.
These wolves are known to grow to around 28 to 36 inches in height and a length of 48 to 60 inches from nose to tail. They are known to weight between 83 to 155 pounds, which would would expect from a wolf living in this range of northern latitudes.
- Height: 28-36 in (70-90 cm)
- Length: 48-60 in (120-150 cm)
- Weight: 83-155 lbs (38-70 kg)
- IUCN Status: No IUCN Status, but considered to be endangered by various sources.
Northern Rocky Mountain Wolf (Canis lupus irremotus)
The Northern Rocky Mountain Wolf lives yes, you guessed it, in the northern rocky mountains. Particularly the Northern United States of Idaho, Montana and Wyoming, as well as the Southern areas of the Alberta province in Canada. At one time they also occupied Yellowstone, but were hunted to extinction in this area in 1924.
These wolves tend to have lighter coats, with black fur peppered sparsely throughout light grey, and are a medium to large subspecies. They have a history of mixed fortunes, at times hunted and regionally extinct, at others protected by the ESA. They once lived very closely to the Tukudika tribe around Yellowstone and were seen as a sacred animal.
Protected status has however, come and gone as populations hit numbers deemed to be stable, or fall below those quotas. Currently this subspecies is not protected by law, and is not listed as endangered.
The Northern Rocky Mountain Wolf is medium pushing towards large in comparison to other Grey Wolf subspecies. They stand around 26 and 32 inches high and while details of length are not widely documented, they are similar in size to other Wolves native to the northern USA. They are quite a heavy wolf around 32–68 kg, likely due to the large prey that they have access to.
- Height: 26-32 in (66-81 cm)
- Length: Similar in size to the British Columbia Wolf (est 60-65 in).
- Weight: 70–150 lbs (32–68 kg)
- IUCN Status: Not Currently listed, but periodically listed and protected by, the Endangered Species Act of 1973 in the USA.
Italian Wolf (Canis lupus italicus)
The Italian Wolf, also known as the Appenine Wolf was first described in 1921 and recognised as a distinct subspecies in 1999. Recently due to an increase in population, the subspecies has also been spotted in areas of Switzerland. It is still debated as to whether this is a distinct subspecies of wolf.
Their fur color is commonly blended grey or brown, though black specimens have recently been sighted in the Mugello region and the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines.
The Italian Wolf is a medium-sized wolf. Male Italian Wolves have an average weight of 24 to 40 kilograms (53 – 88 pounds), with females usually being 10% lighter. The body length of the Italian Wolf is usually 100 – 140 centimetres (39 – 55 inches). It stands at between 50–70 cm (20–28 in) in height at the shoulder.
Like the Eurasian Wolf, the Italian Wolf is protected under EU law in many European countries. In 2022, populations were estimated to be 3307 in Italy. A great improvement from 1970’s when as few as 70 were believed to exist in the country.
- Height: 20–28 in (50–70 cm)
- Length: 39-55 in (100-140 cm)
- Weight: 53-88 lbs (24-40 kg)
- IUCN Status: Least Concern, although vulnerable populations protected in many EU countries.
Labrador Wolf (Canis lupus labradorius)
The Labrador Wolf is native to northern Quebec and the Labrador regions of Newfoundland in Canada. It is both a shy, and an elusive wolf which both contribute to it being one of the least studied in the wild. By last count in 2013, there were believed to be around 1000-1500 of these wolves in the wild. Packs tend to be small, between 3 and 7 wolves.
Populations were in decline in Labrador until around 1950’s due to over hunting. Caribou populations started moving north and increasing at this time, providing more food in their habitat range. While considered vulnerable, the Labrador Wolf is considered a game species, and hunting is not illegal.
The coat of the Labrador Wolf can vary from a dark, ‘peppery’ grey to a light, almost white guard fur. It is a large wolf, considered to be bigger than its close neighbor the Eastern Wolf. However, accurate details about common average size are scarce. They are thought to weight around 66 lbs on average, and to grow as long as 165 cm.
- Height: Data Deficient But Larger Than Eastern Wolf
- Length: Data Deficient But Larger Than Eastern Wolf
- Weight: Data Deficient But Larger Than Eastern Wolf
- IUCN Status: Not listed, but has a local status of T3 ‘vulnerable’ on the NatureServe Conservation Status List.
Alexander Archipelago Wolf (Canis lupus ligoni)
Typically smaller than most of the northern sub species of grey wolf, the Alexander Archipelago Wolf may well be the exception that proves the rule. That being the Bergmann’s rule. It’s smaller stature, in comparison to other wolves of similar latitudes, may be a result of several factors including diet, and ancestry. It also has a distinctive thick, dark coat.
These wolves live mostly around the southeastern Alaskan mainland, and some of the islands of the Alexander Archipelago. They do have a good range of prey animals in their habitat, including deer and moose, but will also eat fish like salmon if the opportunity arises.
The Alexander Archipelago Wolf averages around 24 inches at the shoulders, and 42 inches long. They weigh an average of 30 to 50 pounds and there is no documentation of difference between males and females though this is likely.
- Height: 24 in (61 cm)
- Length: 42 in (110 cm)
- Weight: 30 and 50 lb (14 and 23 kg)
- IUCN Status: Not listed, however there have been several listings as recently as 2021 to have the wolf listed as threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act.
Eurasian Wolf (Canis Lupus Lupus)
The Eurasian Wolf is the oldest of the wolf species native to their continent of origin. It is a subspecies of the Grey Wolf, and until the European Middle Ages, was widespread across the continent.
The color of the Eurasian Wolf ranges from white, cream, red, grey and black, sometimes with all colors combined. Wolves in central Europe tend to be more richly colored than those in Northern Europe.
The largest population of Eurasian Wolves, possibly as many as 30,000 live in Russia. More and more areas are protecting these wolves but they are still widely hunted across the continent. They are protected under EU law, but in Scandinavian countries in particular, where populations are very low, culling has been authorised by governments as recently as 2005.
Eurasian wolves have shorter, denser fur than their North American relatives. Their size varies according to region, although adults measure 41–63 in (105–160 cm) in length from nose to tail, 30-33 inches (76-84 cm) tall at the shoulder and weigh around 70-152 lbs (32-69 kg), with females usually being about twenty per cent smaller than males. The heaviest known Eurasian wolf was killed in Romania and weighed 158 pounds (72 kilograms). However, there are reports of heavier wolves up to 79 kg in the north of Russia.
- Height: 30-33 in (76-84 cm)
- Length: 41–63 in (105–160 cm)
- Weight: 70-152 lbs (32–69 kg) Recorded up to 79 kg in Russia
- IUCN Status: Least Concern, although vulnerable populations protected in many EU countries.
Eastern Wolf (Canis lupus lycaon)
The Eastern Wolf, also known as the Timber Wolf and more recently the Algonquin wolf, mainly occupies the area in and around Algonquin Provincial Park in Ontario and also ventures into adjacent parts of Quebec, Canada. The Eastern Wolf also may be present in Minnesota and Manitoba. It is believed they had a much larger range into the USA, until the arrival and persecution from the incoming Europeans.
The Eastern Wolf has a pale greyish-brown pelt. The back and the sides are covered with long, black hairs. Behind the ears, there is a slight reddish color. These are features that may come from Red Wolf ancestry, as some believe this wolf to be the result of hybridization between the Grey and Red Wolf. Its exact lineage is debated to this day.
In terms of size, the Eastern Wolf is a mid-sized Wolf, between the Grey Wolf and Coyote. The average female weighs around 53 lb and the average male around 67 lbs. They grow to around 26 to 32 inches tall and 36-63 inches long. They can live up to 15 years, similar to most canid species, but average around 3-4 years in the wild.
While Trump removed protected status for many wolves in the USA in 2020, the Eastern Wolf as of 2015, has been considered as a threatened species worthy of conservation in Canada. At this time, its designation was changed from (Canis Lupus Lycaon) to (Canis species believed to be lycaon) for the wolves speccifically living in Ontario and Quebec. It was also renamed the Algonquin wolf.
- Height: 26-32 in (66-81 cm)
- Length: 36-63 in (91-160 cm)
- Weight: 53-67 lbs (24-31 kg)
- Conservation Status: Considered threatened In Canada
Mackenzie River Wolf (Canis lupus mackenzii)
Little is documented about the Mackenzie River Wolf, other than its habitat and that it is a distinct subspecies of the grey wolf. The Mackenzie River Wolf is also sometimes referred to as the Mackenzie Arctic Wolf, but not to be mistaken with the Mackenzie Valley Wolf which is now known to be the Northwestern Wolf (Canis lupus occidentalis).
The Mackenzie River Wolf is still an accepted subspecies according to the Mammal Species of the World (2005), (p576).
These wolves live in the Thaidene Nëné National Park Reserve of the Northwest Territories in Canada. This area is around the Mackenzie River basin from which the wolf takes its name. The last comprehensive work to include details of this river wolf was in 1954, and it is a very elusive report to find.
- Height: Data Deficient
- Length: Data Deficient
- Weight: Data Deficient
- IUCN Status: Not Listed, believed to be secure.
Baffin Island Wolf (Canis lupus manningi)
The Baffin Island Wolf is a distinct subspecies of grey wolf, native to Baffin Island and many of it’s surrounding smaller islands. It is noted as being the smallest of the subspecies of grey wolves that live in the Arctic. These wolves have a light coat, often white, but can also have a peppering of black hair through the guard fur, on the back, sides or tail.
There are conflicting reports about the stability of the population of this wolf. Some describe the population as secure, while others suggest that they are endangered. Baffin Island has a relatively small human population, which is mostly in a few settlements leaving much of the island unpopulated. So the wolf certainly has plenty space to roam and hunt. But pups can be vulnerable to predation from bears, including polar bears and other arctic predators.
As mentioned above, the Baffin Island Wolf is the smallest of the Arctic wolves. The little size detail available suggests that they stand around 24-41 inches tall at the shoulders, and around 39 to 46 inches long. They are the lightest of the arctic wolves too, ranging between 30 to 50 pounds, with males larger and heavier than females.
- Height: 24-41 in (60 cm to 105 cm)
- Length: 39-46 in (100-117 cm)
- Weight: 30 – 50 pounds (13.6 – 22.7 kilograms)
- IUCN Status: Not listed, conflicting reports.
Greenland Wolf (Canis Lupus orion)
It is thought that the Greenland Wolf migrated from Baffin Island and are therefore a descendant of that subspecies. This wolf is protected, and most of the wild population live in the Northeast Greenland National Park. Populations were estimated in 2018, to be around 200 individuals, but as they are so remote, a census is difficult.
Because of their low pack sizes, population density and low reproductive rates, these wolves are considered to be endangered. They are opportunistic hunters, and will prey on anything easy to catch. Hare makes up a good portion of the diet, but they have also been known to dine on muskox and on seals. Their prey tend to be less ‘challenging’ than that of other subspecies. They hunt and live in small packs, less than 4 so they don’t have the same opportunities to harass their prey.
There is very limited data on the size of the Greenland Wolf. The little data that exists, is based on measurements from 5 individuals caught at the start of the 20th Century. These wolves may not represent a true average, but it is the only accurate size information available to date. Greenland wolves, the data suggests, measure a little over 5 feet long (61 inches), and weight around 57 pounds. This is a little light for wolves at these latitudes.
- Height: Data Deficient
- Length: 61 in (155 cm)
- Weight: 57 lb (26 kg)
- IUCN Status: Endangered
Indian Wolf (Canis lupus pallipes)
The Indian Wolf lives in the warm climates of Southwest Asia and India. It has a much shorter, thinner coat than it’s northern cousins, providing it the cover it needs for it’s environment. It is considered to be very fast, with ample endurance, and very cunning in nature.
It is similar in build to the Eurasian Wolf, but smaller and thinner. While the hair on the Indian Wolf is short and thin, particularly in summer, the back hair remains long. The coat on the Indian Wolf is a base of red, with either white or grey, and black fur usually peppers the back.
The Indian Wolf is considered to be one of the most endangered, and in India it is a Schedule I listed animal (Wildlife Protection Act) 1972. It’s territory overlaps with other predators, such as the golden jackal and leopard. The blackbuck and antelope are important prey animals for them.
In terms of size, the Indian Wolf is of medium size, but slender weight. It ranges from around 22-28 inches at the shoulders, and a length of 41-57 inches long. Males are longer than females by stand around the same height. They weigh around 17-25 kg with males being heavier than females.
- Height: 22–28 in (57–72 cm)
- Length: 41–57 in (103-145 cm)
- Weight: 37-55 lb (17-25 kg)
- IUCN Status: Endangered
Alaskan Interior Wolf (Canis lupus pambasileus)
The Alaskan Interior Wolf, also known as the Yukon Wolf, is native to the boreal forest, alpine and tundra areas around the Alaskan interior, British Colombia, the Northwest Territories and the Yukon. Several recovery programmes have been introduced between 1983 and present day, to manage and control the population of these wolves and study the impact of their presence on other species in their environment.
There are estimates of 5000 wolves in the Yukon, and they live in packs of around 7-9 wolves. The coat of these wolves can range from black or white tones, but are more commonly tan or grey.
According to the Yukon Department Of Environment, these wolves stand around 85 cm tall (33.5 inches) and weight between 30-50 kg. However, the weight of these wolves across different preserves and parks can differ. Across all examples, the average is between 32 and 56 kg, with males being heavier than females.
There are examples of individual cases weighing over 80 kg in Alaska, but this is well above the average. The Alaskan Interior Wolf seems to measure around 150 and 196 cm long, making it one of the largest subspecies. According to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, most examples in the Alaskan interior, weight between 85 to 115 pounds (38.6-52.3kg), so it does vary slightly across territories.
- Height: 33.5 in (85 cm)
- Length: 60-78 in (150-196 cm)
- Weight: 66-124 lbs (30-56 kg)
- IUCN Status: Not listed, but listed by the Nature Conservancy (TNC) as ‘Apparently Secure’ in the Yukon
Red Wolf (Canis Rufus)
Historically, Red Wolves ranged throughout the Southeastern United States from Pennsylvania to Florida and as far west as Texas. Today, the only wild red wolves roam the Alligator River Refuge and nearby Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge in Northeastern North Carolina. This is another wolf whose lineage is still debated depending on which competing model of evolution is believed (two or three species models of evolution).
Adults can measure between 53.5–63 in (136–160 cm) in length, with male Red Wolves typically a little larger, averaging 55–65 inches. They have a height at the shoulder of 24–26 inches (61 – 66 centimetres), and weighs 40-80 pounds (18-36 kilograms). Males average around 60lbs and females 50 lbs.
The Red wolf has a smooth reddish coat, silver-grey forehead, darker marks on white legs and a cream colored underbelly. The Red Wolf has long ears and long legs.
They are the rarest and most endangered of all the wolf species, and were almost hunted to the brink of extinction in 1980. Fewer than 20 pure red wolves were gathered up by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to be bred in captivity. Although they were declared extinct in the wild in 1980, fortunately there were enough captive animals by 1987 to begin a reintroduction program.
Today there are 30 organizations involved in the captive breeding and reintroduction program to save the species and return them to the wild. Around 300 exist in the world, with 207 of these living in captivity.
- Height: 24–26 inches (61–66 cm)
- Length: 53.5-65 in (136-165 cm)
- Weight: 40-80 lbs (18-36 kg)
- IUCN Status: Critically Endangered
Iberian Wolf (Canis lupus signatus)
Wolves can be quite a rare site in Western Europe, having mostly been hunted to extinction. The Iberian Wolf is an exception, and lives around the Northern areas of the Iberian Peninsula of Spain and Portugal. They once shared some territory with a recently extinct subspecies called Canis. l.upus deitanus, but this wolf has not been seen for nearly 100 years.
The Iberian Wolf is thinner than its closest neighbor the Eurasian Wolf, and can also be identified by black markings on its front legs, back and tail. These wolves also have white markings on their upper lips, and a light grey to brownish red fur. Various sources across the last two decades, identify the Iberian Wolf as being of around 22-56 kg in weight, with males being much larger than females. Females don’t generally weight over 35 kg.
In terms of size, the Iberian wolf stands, on average, between 28-36 inches tall at the shoulders and between 44 to 56 inches long from nose to tail. Earlier accounts detailed a longer but less tall wolf but recent measurements take into account more data.
They were considered a ‘pest’ in Spain, as late as the 1970’s and were hunted as trophies reducing the population to as low as 400 individuals. By 2003, the numbers had recovered to around 2000 individuals, and hunting is now banned in both Spain and Portugal. They are listed as vulnerable and human interaction, particularly illegal hunting is still a problem for the Iberian Wolf.
- Height: 28-36 in (70–90 cm)
- Length: 44-56 in (110–140 cm)
- Weight: 49-121 lbs (22-55kg)
- IUCN Status: Vulnerable
Alaskan Tundra Wolf (Canis lupus tundrarum)
The Alaskan Tundra Wolf, lives along the coastal tundra region of Northern Alaska. It is also sometimes called the barren-ground wolf, which is also in relation to the tundra region in which it lives. In the wild, they can live in packs of up to 20 animals, and there are examples of this wolf also kept in captive programmes and zoos. It is another remote wold for which there is limited details known.
There are unreferenced reports of these wolves measuring 50 to 64 in length, and 80-176 lbs in weight, but these numbers are hard to confirm. Other reports have the wolves at around 81–108 lb (36.7-49 kg) in weight, 44-54 in (111.7-137.1 cm) long and around 36 inches (90 cm) tall, but across all the sources, the first data appears to be the more widely accepted. Males can be much heavier than females.
- Height: Around 36 in (90 cm)
- Length: 50 to 64 in (127-162 cm)
- Weight: 80-176 lbs (36-80 kg)
- IUCN Status: Not listed, but The Nature Conservancy (TNC) have it listed as ‘Apparently Secure – T4’.
Northwestern Wolf (Canis lupus occidentalis)
Also known as the Mackenzie Valley Wolf and a contender for the largest subspecies of wolf in the world. The Northwestern Wolf can be found across the Northwestern United States, Alaska and Western Canada – particularly, as the name suggests, around the Mackenzie River Valley.
These wolves have bushy fur and short ears, helpful in the cold climate. They also have a thick nose and round head. These features set it distinctly apart from the next largest subspecies, the Eurasian Wolf.
It is not considered to be endangered, and has been reintroduced to some areas, particularly Yellowstone National Park to take the place of the Grey wolves that used to inhabit the park but are now gone! The wolves play a vital role in Yellowstone as a keystone species.
The Northwestern wolf can vary in size and weight depending on location. Those that live farthest north are larger than those that inhabit lower areas. In one area study, they have been known to reach 45-72 kg for males (99 and 159 lb), and 36 to 60 kg for females. (79 to 132 lb) While in Yellowstone they appear a bit smaller, reaching around 50 kg for males and 40 kg for females.
- Height: 27-36 in (68-91.5 cm)
- Length: 5-7 ft (152-213 cm)
- Weight: 79-159 lbs (36-72 kg)
- IUCN Status: Not Listed
The African Wolf (Canis Lupaster)
The African Wolf, sometimes called the African Golden Wolf, is a species of Canid that stands separate to the Grey Wolf, though it does share significant genetic ancestry. It is a distinct species with 6 different, regional subspecies. The African Wolf populations are native to the North of Africa, as well as East and West areas north of and including the Sahel.
It was only recently demonstrated (in 2015) that the African Wolf was a stand alone species (Canis lupaster) with sub variants, rather than an African subspecies of the Golden Jackal (Canis aureus lupaster). This debate had been ongoing for around 200 years. Genetic studies show its ancestry is predominantly a mix of the Grey wolf and Ethiopian wolf.
While it shares a similar size to the golden jackal, it has different markings, longer ears, and its muzzle and forehead are a different shape. They are smaller generally, than African Jackals, but larger than some of the smaller species of Grey Wolf. Size also varies widely from region to region, across the different subspecies. But in general, they average around 40 cm in height at the shoulders, and 7–15 kg (15–33 lb) in weight. Much smaller than wolves of the arctic.
- Height: 16 in (40 cm)
- Length: Varies Across The Subspecies
- Weight: 15–33 lb (7–15 kg)
- IUCN Status: Least Concern
Subspecies of The African Wolf
Algerian Wolf (Canis Lupaster algirensis)
The Algerian Wolf has a darker coat than other African wolves, with three distinct dark ring markings on the tail. It is a small wolf, similar in size to a red fox. Data is scarce for the accurate size of this subspecies, but as similar to the red fox, they will stand around 40 cm high at the shoulders (similar to other subspecies), around 7-14 kg in weight, and around 45-90 cm long.
- Height: Estimate 16 in (40 cm)
- Length: Estimate 18-36 in (45 – 90 cm)
- Weight: 7-14 kg in line with other African Wolf subspecies.
- IUCN Status: Least Concern
Senegalese Wolf (Canis Lupaster anthus)
The Senegalese Wolf is still sometimes referred to as the Grey Jackal, despite its recent classification as a subspecies of wolf. It is similar in shape to the Egyptian Wolf, but with a lighter fur – most notable on the back – and sharper snout. These wolves are native to Senegal in West Africa.
The species is not widely studied, and there are two conflicting reports that mention dimensions. One, written around the turn of the 20th Century claims it is smaller than the Egyptian Wolf, whereas an earlier account describes it as being around an inch higher at the shoulder and several inches longer than the Egyptian wolf.
From the physical dimension that have been taken of this subspecies, we know that, from the examples measured, they stand around 15 inches (38 cm) tall at the shoulder, and around 14 inches from head to where body meets tail. The tail adds another 10 inches to total a length of 24 inches (61 cm).
- Height: 15 in (38 cm)
- Length: 24 in (61 cm) head to tip of tail.
- Weight: No Specific detail, but between 7-15 kg as normal for African Wolves
- IUCN Status: Not Listed
Serengeti Wolf (Canis Lupaster Bea)
The Serengeti Wolf is native to Northern Tanzania and Kenya. This is as far south as the African Wolf subspecies go. It is possibly the smallest subspecies, and has lighter fur than it’s northern cousins. It is sometimes referred to as the East African Wolf, or by the alternative ‘Serengeti Jackal’ by those that believe it to be much closer to the jackal than the wolf.
The Serengeti Wolf was considered a separate subspecies in 1914, and its taxonomy changed from jackal to wolf subspecies in 2015. Little is documented at all about this subspecies, but there are some photos available, most of which still currently refer to the animal as a jackal.
- Height: Data Deficient for subspecies
- Length: Data Deficient for subspecies
- Weight: Data Deficient for subspecies
- IUCN Status: Least Concern
Egyptian Wolf (Canis lupaster lupaster)
Probably the most widespread of the subspecies, the Egyptian Wolf can be found across the full range from West, North and East Africa. These wolves share a territorial boundary with the Senegalese Wolf, but will usually come out on top over any disputes.
They are darker than the Senegalese Wolf, and are the most Grey-Wolf-like variant of the African wolves. They have thick heavy bodies, with long legs and short ears. It has a darker back, yellowish limbs and light fur around the mouth.
In terms of size, again there is not much first hand or academic material to go on. One account from the San Diego Zoo, based on measurements in 1999 (when the Egyptian Wolf was sometimes considered a subspecies of the grey wolf) suggest a body weight of 10-16 kg, and a length of 53-65 inches (134-166 cm) including the tail. Other speculative accounts suggest dimensions of 16 inches (40.6 cm) tall at the shoulders, and 50 inches 127 cm in length, which may align with the previous account if excluding the tail.
- Height: 16 inches (40.6 cm)
- Length: 53-65 inches (134-166 cm) including the tail
- Weight: 22-35 lbs (10-16 kg)
- IUCN Status: Least Concern
Somali Wolf (Canis Lupaster riparius)
The Somali Wolf – previously known as the Abyssinian Jackal – is native to the East African Countries of Eretria, Ethiopia and Somalia, particularly around the coastal areas of the Horn Of Africa . These wolves are considered a dwarf species, measuring a mere 12 inches (30 cm) tall at the shoulders. These details however, are based on data over 100 years old and there is not much new information to go on since.
There have been no wide studies done on this subspecies, but we know it is small, it has a light, yellowish-grey fur, with white underparts. The legs and the muzzle have more yellow color. There is no IUCN listing for this subspecies.
- Height: 12 inches (30 cm)
- Length: Data Deficient
- Weight: Data Deficient
- IUCN Status: Not Listed
Variegated Wolf (Canis lupaster soudanicus)
The Variegated Wolf, is also sometimes known as the Nubian Wolf, and is native to Sudan and Somalia in East Africa. It has a pale grey coat, with patches of thick, peppery black.
Unlike many other wolves, the Variegated wolf lives on small prey (mammals and birds), and lives in rocky, sometimes mountainous regions up to 5000 feet.
It is a smaller wolf than the Egyptian subspecies, looking more like a jackal than the traditional grey wolf. data suggest that the Variegated Wolf measures around 15 in (38 cm) at the shoulders, and 40 in (102 cm) long but it’s not clear if this includes the tail.
- Height: 15 in (38 cm)
- Length: 40 in (102 cm)
- Weight: Data Deficient, most likely on the lighter side of the average African Wolf.
- IUCN Status: Least Concern
Other Canid Species Classified As Wolves
Maned Wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus)
The Maned Wolf looks more like a large dog than a wolf. It is the largest canid in South America and its distribution includes southern Brazil, Paraguay, Peru and Bolivia east of the Andes. The Maned Wolf is the only species in the genus Chrysocyon. The largest population is in Brazil, and it is believed that there are only as few as 5000 outside of the country.
The Maned Wolf appears as a cross among different species: the head and coloring of a wolf, the large ears of an African hunting dog and the body of a hyena. Some think the wolf looks like a mix between a wolf and a fox. The Maned Wolf has often been described as a ‘Red Fox on stilts’.
While the Grey Wolf species may contain the largest wolves by mass, the Maned Wolf is the tallest of the different species. They stand at around 88-90 cm tall at the shoulder, with a slender lanky frame. The average adult weighs between 44-66 pounds (20–30 kg) with a much lighter frame than northern wolves. From nose to tail the Maned Fox can reach around 56-57 inches (142-145 cm). The tail adds about a third of the total length.
- Height: 34-35 in (88-90 cm)
- Length: 56-57 in (142-145 cm)
- Weight: 44–66 lb (20–30 kg)
- IUCN Status: Near Threatened, though local agencies in Brazil and USA list this wolf as endangered.
Ethiopian Wolf (Canis simensis)
The Ethiopian Wolf, which goes by a variety of other names, is one of the rarest and most endangered of all canids. The numerous names reflect previous uncertainty about their taxonomic position, however, they are now thought to be related to the wolves of the genus Canis, rather than foxes they resemble.
The Ethiopian Wolf is found in the Afro-alpine regions of Ethiopia and Eritrea, about 10,000 feet (3,000 metres) above sea level. Only about twelve populations, totalling about 450 adults, remain.
These wolves have a longer muzzle and smaller teeth than other species. The male Ethiopian wolves are significantly larger than the females, weighing from 33 – 42 pounds (15 – 19 kilograms) and females weighing from 24 – 31 pounds (11.2 – 14.15 kilograms). They are significantly smaller than northern types of Grey Wolf.
Their legs are comparatively long. Their body color is an overall reddish brown with white undersides, legs and markings on the face. Ethiopian Wolves bushy tails are white at the base and black at the tip.
- Height: 21–24 in (53–62 cm)
- Length: 33.1–39.8 in (84–101 cm)
- Weight: 24-42 lbs (11.2-19 kg)
- IUCN Status: Endangered
Historical And Recent North American Grey Wolf Subspecies Distribution
Wolf Size Comparison FAQs
WHAT WAS THE LARGEST WOLF EVER?
Currently, the Dire Wolf is believed to have been the largest wolf ever to have existed. While larger than the grey wolves that are extant today, they were not ‘giant’ by any stretch of the imagination. They lived during the Late Pleistocene and Holocene epochs (129,000 to 11,700 years ago). They weighed around 150 pounds (68 kg) on average, and had larger teeth and bigger paws than the grey wolves of today.
WHAT IS THE LARGEST SPECIES OF WOLF?
The largest species of wolf today, is the Northwestern Wolf, and possibly the Interior Alaskan Wolf which are very similar in size. The Northwestern Wolf averages around 60 kg in weight across genders, and can measure up to 7 feet in length!
WHAT IS THE SMALLEST SPECIES OF WOLF?
The Arabian Grey Wolf is the smallest subspecies of Canis Lupus at around 20kg in weight. But there are smaller African Wolves (Canis Lupaster), which can weight as little as 7 kg.
HOW MUCH DO BABY WOLVES WEIGH?
Baby wolves (grey wolf subspecies) weigh around 1 lb when born, but African wolf pups are probably smaller. Baby wolves grow quickly though, around 2.5-3.5 lbs in weight per week!