Beyond their importance as a critical keystone species, wolves are really playful!

As highly social animals that live in well-organized family units called packs, wolves will often engage in social play to strengthen family bonds and assess social status within the pack. When seeking to play, wolves will dance and bow playfully. Playtime can also include a game of chase, jaw sparring, and varied vocalizations.

Sometimes wolves, including Mexican gray wolf Lighthawk featured in the video, will play just to have fun! It’s like going sledding – but no sled required!

Meet Lighthawk and the other twenty-six Mexican gray wolves who call the Wolf Conservation Center Home.