The Ilnik wolf Canis lupus pack: use of marine mammals and offshore sea ice

Abstract

Abstract Most wolf Canis lupus studies have been conducted in inland regions and comparatively little data are available for wolves inhabiting coastal areas. We monitored four members of a coastal wolf pack on the Alaska Peninsula during 2006‐2008. Habitat selection ratios indicated a strong association with the coastline, and we documented pack members and other wolves feeding on several species of marine mammals in these areas. In addition, pack members were observed foraging on offshore sea ice on multiple occasions. Observed spatial use and utilization of marine mammals suggest that marine‐derived subsidies may provide an important food source to coastal wolf populations. If these subsidies constitute a significant food source for coastal wolves, they likely affect wolf demographics and predator‐prey relationships in these areas.