Known by their studbook numbers, female #1858 and male #1784 were recommended for breeding by the SSP in the summer of 2016 as a potentially high value breeding pair to maintain genetic diversity within the Red Wolf population. The Museum's female is recognized as the second most genetically valuable female Red Wolf alive today.

This is the first litter for female #1858. Born at the Riding Reflection Arboretum and Nature Center, in Chattanooga, TN, she was recently transferred to the Museum in November 2016, where she joined the Museum's seven-year-old male, #1784. Born at the Miller Park Zoo in Bloomington, IL, the Museum's male was transferred in 2014 from North Carolina State University (NCSU) Veterinary College where he previously sired one litter of pups.

"This is truly exciting news for the species and the Museum," said Sherry Samuels, Museum of Life and Science's Animal Department Director and member of the Red Wolf SSP Management Team. "With recent developments surrounding the wild population, the responsibility of SSP institutions like the Museum is more critical than ever before. Each pup is valuable for the survival of the species and represents hope for the Red Wolf population overall."

This is the third time in 24 years that a successful breeding of Red Wolves has occurred at the Museum of Life and Science. The Museum received its first Red Wolf in November 1992, followed by litters of pups in May 1993 and April 2002.

"Both parents and pups are doing well," said Samuels, whose staff performed initial physical checkups. "There was no presence of congenital defects and all appear to be healthy, however the first 30 days are a particularly sensitive time, and we will continue regular monitoring." While all the Wolves will remain on exhibit, the pups and mother will likely spend a majority of their time in either the provided den or one of the dens dug by the female during the gestation period.

Pups typically begin to open their eyes in 10-14 days and often venture out of the den for short periods of time around three weeks of age. At around six weeks, they will begin to spend longer amounts of time out of the den, but the public should not plan to see much of them before early June. Even then, the Museum's newest arrivals might be difficult to spot; Red Wolves are notoriously shy and can be quite reserved around crowds and loud noises. Museum staff will be present at the Wolf habitat throughout the summer to answer questions and help guests stay calm, quiet, and observant.

"It will be an exciting and busy summer keeping up with this family," said Samuels "This is a wonderful opportunity for our visitors to practice the skills used by wildlife biologists observing Red Wolves in the wild. Quiet observation and patience will be key when viewing our new pups." All of the wolf pups will remain at the Museum for the next year and perhaps even longer, depending on the recommendations and needs of the Red Wolf SSP.

The Museum's animal care staff will continue to monitor the health of both the pups and the adult Wolf pair over the coming weeks. Daily pup checks will occur throughout the first week, and a hands-on veterinary check will follow as soon as possible. A preventative medicine protocol of deworming, vaccines, and general checks will occur approximately every two weeks until 16 weeks of age.

*Located less than five miles from downtown Durham, the Museum of Life and Science is one of North Carolina's top family destinations whose mission is to create a place of lifelong learning where people, from young child to senior citizen, embrace science as a way of knowing about themselves, their community, and their world. Situated on 84-acres, the immersive environment of this outdoor science park and two-story science center inspire curiosity, the capacity for thinking scientifically, and the desire to learn for a lifetime.

The Museum is proud to be an accredited member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. To learn more, visit: www.lifeandscience.org