Post by KETIA on Jan 12, 2014 22:50:50 GMT -7
Wolf Pup Physical & Social Development
Neonatal Period: Birth to Eyes Open (12 to 14 days)
Birth - When first born, pups are unable to regulate their own body temperature. They are born blind with closed eyes, deaf, and have a 'pugged' nose with little if any sense of smell, but have a good sense of taste and touch. Motor skills are limited to a slow crawl, sucking and licking. Their vocal sounds include whining and yelping.
Transitional Period: Eye opening to 20-24 Days
2 Weeks - The eyes open at 11 - 15 days, but their eyesight is not fully developed and pups cannot perceive forms until weeks later. Milk incisors will be present at 15 days; They then can eat small pieces of regurgitated meat. Motor skills begin to improve, pups will be able to stand and walk. Vocalizations include growls, whimpering and squeaks, first high-pitched attempts at howling.
Socialization Period: 20 - 24 Days to 77 Days
3 Weeks - Beginning appearing outside of the den and playing near the entrance. Ears begin to raise around 27 days and hearing imp roes significantly. Around 31 days the ears are erect, tips still flopping. Canines and premolar teeth present.
4 Weeks - Growth of adult hair around nose and eyes. Short, high-pitched howls are gaining strength. Mother may of off for hours on end to hunt. Dominance and play fighting begin.
5 Weeks - Gradual process of weaning begins. Can follow adults up to a mile away from the den.
Juvenile Period: 12 Weeks to Sexual Maturity (1 - 3 years)
8 - 10 weeks - Adults abandon den and move pipes to a rendezvous site. Weaning complete, pipes feed on food provided by adults. Adult guard hair becomes apparent on body.
8 - 16 weeks - Pups begin to follow adults on hunting trips for a short while and return to the den by themselves.
4 months - Milk teeth replaced.
6 months - Winter fur becomes apparent and pup appearance is nearly indistinguishable from adults. Pups begin to accompany adults on hunts.
7 - 8 months - Pupes begin to travel with pack. Begin actively hunting.
1 year - Epiphyseal canticles closed off signaling the end of skeletal growth. Pups status in the pack may start to take shape with pups displaying either more dominant or submissive behaviors.
3 years - Sexual maturity.