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What are the leading causes of death for gray wolves?

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In most areas of the world, the leading cause of death for gray wolves is human beings.12

While wolves can live up to 13 years in the wild, most die significantly earlier due to various factors. In regions characterized by high wolf density and declining prey populations, the primary causes of mortality are starvation and being killed by other wolves.12

Additionally, wolves are susceptible to a variety of diseases and parasites, including:

Canine parvovirus
Distemper
Rabies
Blastomycosis
Lyme disease
Lice
Mange
Heartworm13