Albuquerque, NM (KKOB) — Placing foster Mexican Wolf pups into wild dens helps support the genetic diversity of the growing wolf population in the southwest This year, a record 27 pups entered the packs, nine of which came from New Mexico breeding programs. The youngsters are mixed in with wild pups within 14 days of being born. Then, wild adult pack mates help raise the foster wolves alongside naturally born wolves. Five of the pups came from the Living Desert Zoo in Carlsbad, and four from the Sevilleta Wolf Management Facility near Socorro. The Forest Service says, while the wolves generally hunt for themselves, officials will support the fosters by providing some supplemental food to the wild packs.
