Currently, there are no established wild wolf populations in Pennsylvania. The only place to observe wolves living outdoors in the state today is at the Wolf Sanctuary of PA in Lititz, which provides a refuge for rescued wolves and wolfdogs.
Pennsylvania’s Historical Wolf Population
Pennsylvania was once a natural habitat for wild wolves. These wolves historically preyed on large mammals such as deer, elk, and bison. As European settlers expanded, wolves’ natural food sources declined, leading them to prey on livestock.
This behavior, coupled with the value of their pelts, made them targets for trappers, hunters, and government-sponsored predator control efforts aimed at eliminating the wolf population. Habitat destruction, through forest clearing and human encroachment, further contributed to their decline.
The last confirmed wild wolf in Pennsylvania was killed in 1892 in Clearfield County. By the early 1900s, wolves were considered locally extinct, or extirpated, from the state. This historical absence means humans now manage populations of certain prey species, like white-tailed deer, to prevent overpopulation.
Commonly Mistaken Canids
Many canids in Pennsylvania are frequently mistaken for wolves. The most common are coyotes, eastern coyotes (sometimes called coywolves), and large feral dogs.
Coyotes, the most widespread wild canid in Pennsylvania, are considerably smaller than wolves. An adult coyote typically stands 21 to 24 inches tall and weighs between 15 and 50 pounds, compared to a gray wolf’s 26 to 32 inches and 70 to 150 pounds. Coyotes also have a more slender build, narrower snouts, and taller, more pointed ears. Wolves have broader heads, blockier snouts, and shorter, more rounded ears. Coyote tracks are smaller, around 2.5 inches long, while wolf tracks can be 4 to 5 inches long.
Eastern coyotes, often called coywolves, are a hybrid resulting from interbreeding between coyotes, wolves, and domestic dogs. They tend to be larger than Western coyotes, with some wolf-like physical traits such as a more massive body and longer legs, but are still smaller than pure wolves. Their genetic makeup varies, typically being a mix of coyote, wolf, and dog. Their vocalizations can sometimes start with a deep wolf-like sound but often transition into a higher-pitched, yipping chorus typical of coyotes.
Feral dogs can also be mistaken for wolves, particularly larger breeds. Wolves generally have larger heads, feet, and stronger jaws, alongside a narrower chest and longer legs than most domestic dog breeds. Unlike wolves, which are naturally shy and avoid human contact, feral dogs may exhibit less fear of humans and can sometimes be more aggressive. A wolf’s tail typically hangs straight down or in line with its back, while dogs often have a wider variety of tail shapes and positions.