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Wolf packs are based on a leadership hierarchy. The dominant male (alpha male) and dominant female (alpha female) are at the head of this society. They can be identified by their erect posture, with their ears and tails held high. The alpha male and female have definite responsibilities in maintaining order in their pack. The alpha male is usually the only male to breed and it is partly his job to make sure that no other males attempt to breed with the alpha female. He is also the center of activities such as pre-hunting rallies, pack ceremonies, bonding activities, and feeding. The alpha female is also usually the only female to breed. Her most important responsibility is choosing a den site but she also shares the responsibilities of the male. Since she controls mating in the pack, her actions determine the future genetic makeup of the pack. The breeding season can ultimately fail if she chooses a poor den site, in an area of low prey density. During the breeding season all of the pack’s activities are based around the alpha female.

A subdominant wolf can be identified in the pack through its body language as well. Subdominant wolves will lower its body, tuck its tail, and pull its ears back when confronting a wolf of higher standing. At the bottom of the hierarchy is the omega wolf. This wolf can be either male or female. This wolf is used as an outlet for aggression for the rest of the wolves, especially the alpha. The alpha wolf will decide if and when other wolves are allowed to eat. The omega wolf usually goes last and must pick over what everyone else has taken. The omega also initiates play.

Within the hierarchy, younger individuals are constantly trying to better their status. When a new alpha male takes charge, it occurs very rapidly. The old alpha male is still treated with respect by the other subdominants. It has been suggested that the dominance hierarchies serve to maintain order and conserve energy within the pack by reducing aggression. Basically it prevents a fight each time a wolf contests something.

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Facial gestures and body postures

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Behavior/ Birth/ Role

Emotions through Body Language

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