Visitors driving through Longleat’s Drive-Through Safari are being warned to take extra care after an unusual new road sign appeared in the wolf enclosure.
The sign reads “Wolf Pups on Road”, as eight young European wolves begin venturing into Wolf Wood for the first time.
The pups were born around four months ago to mother Meg, who has been gradually introducing them to the wider enclosure after they spent their early weeks in a side paddock.
Amy Waller, Team Manager of Safari at Longleat, said the young wolves were still learning how to behave around vehicles.
“The pups have only seen vehicles from a distance as they were in a side paddock with mum, so we’re asking guests to be extra careful when driving through as the young ones haven’t yet developed any road sense,” she said.
“Meg is introducing them to Wolf Wood slowly and letting them explore at their own pace and they are growing in confidence – and size – daily.”
Some of the pups have already ventured into the main safari, while others remain more cautious.
Waller said Meg was encouraging them to explore at their own pace.
“Some are more confident than others and haven’t yet ventured out into the main safari, but Meg is there gently encouraging them every step of the way.”
The arrival of the pups is part of Longleat’s conservation work involving the European wolf, a protected species.
The new arrivals have also brought changes to the existing wolf group. The previous pack of male wolves has moved to a new location in Scotland to make way for the growing family.
There were originally nine pups, but one female sadly died naturally at around three months old after failing to thrive.
Their father, Terry, also died from natural causes before the pups were born, leaving Meg to raise the youngsters herself.
“With eight boys we have a strong pack dynamic,” said Waller. “For Meg to be raising the pups single-handed is an incredible achievement and it is fantastic to see the eight playing and exploring together.”
For visitors, however, the message is simple: keep an eye out for the young wolves – and be prepared to give them plenty of room.
Tickets and information are available from Longleat.
