Common Wolf couple with a significant age difference is born.

In February 2026, a new couple was born at Tama Common Wolf Tama Zoo. Sui (female, 2 years old) and Kayoran (male, 9 years old), both gray wolves, began living together in April 2025 and have gradually deepened their relationship despite the age difference between them.

Around the beginning of January 2026, changes began to be observed between the two. Kayoran, who usually spent most of her time resting, began to show a strong interest in Sui. During this period, Kayoran's appetite decreased, and she was observed frequently sniffing Sui's genitals. She also began to follow Sui more frequently. In late January, further changes were observed in Kayoran's behavior. For the first time, Kayoran began to exhibit mounting behavior towards Sui (the male mounting the female from behind), which was an important sign that the relationship between the two was progressing.

Then, on January 29th, estrus bleeding was confirmed in Sui, making it clear that the breeding season had officially begun. Also, Sui, who usually hardly ever howls, began howling frequently around February 9th, and Kayoran responded by howling along with her.

It is known that during the breeding season, wolves that do not normally howl will howl frequently. This howling is thought to be part of Sui's courtship behavior towards Kayoran. Howling is an important means of communication for wolves, not only to let their pack and partners know of their presence, but also to convey their emotions. Sui's howling was probably an expression of his interest in and affection for Kayoran. And finally, on February 12th, mating was confirmed.

Wolf mating is similar to that of dogs. The male mounts the female from behind and begins mating. As mating progresses, the male's penis expands inside the vagina and temporarily locks in place, preventing it from withdrawing. This state is called "binding" and is thought to be a mechanism to ensure that sperm remain inside the female's body. Once binding occurs, the male and female turn around and face each other back to back. This position usually lasts for 10 to 30 minutes.

It should be noted that wolves can experience false pregnancies even after mating. Female wolves experiencing false pregnancies may undergo hormonal changes, resulting in a swollen abdomen, development of mammary glands, and milk secretion, even if they are not actually pregnant.

Therefore, we will continue to carefully observe and assess the situation. If things progress smoothly, we plan to begin preparations for the birth in April, and we will inform you again at that time. We would appreciate your continued warm support for Sui and Kayoran.

[Tama Zoo]

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(March 13, 2026)