Red wolf pups on view at the WNC Nature Center

Jason Sandford

Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.

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Press release here:

The wolves get their big day! Four red wolf pups born at the WNC Nature Center on May 9 have been introduced into the main exhibit area and are viewable by the public for the first time, center director Chris Gentile announced today.

“The pups are now about 15 pounds each and are really active in the new exhibit” Gentile says.

Since their birth three months ago, the pups along with their mother “Mayo” and dad “Phoenix” have been living in a large off-exhibit yard. During that time, nature center staff evaluated their health and administered important inoculations. Once the pups became more independent, the decision was made to move them to the main exhibit yard.

The WNC Nature Center is one of only four U.S. zoos that saw the birth of red wolves in 2012, and Gentile said it is a privilege to be able to have them at the center. “The red wolf is critically endangered, so to get to watch these four grow is a very unique opportunity. We are happy that we can share this exciting experience and the story of the red wolf with our visitors,” Gentile said.

Regular admission to the WNC Nature Center is $6 for adults ($8 for non-Asheville residents), $5 for seniors ($7 for non-Asheville residents), $4 for youth ages 3-15 and children age 2 and under are free.