farkasok

Farkasok is the Hungarian term for wolves. The word farkas denotes a wolf, and farkasok refers to multiple individuals. In a broad, English-language context, farkasok are the wolves of genus Canis, most commonly classified as Canis lupus in modern taxonomy.

Wolves occur across a wide range of habitats in Eurasia and North America. Today, populations persist in Europe, Asia, and North America, occupying forests, tundra, mountains, and deserts. In many regions they recolonize former ranges where prey and habitat are adequate, while in others they remain limited or threatened due to habitat loss, hunting, and conflicts with livestock.

Wolves are highly social animals that typically live and hunt in packs led by an alpha pair. Pack size varies with prey abundance and territory, and social structure is maintained through vocalizations, body language, and scent marking. Packs defend territories against rivals and cooperate in rearing the young.

The principal diet of wolves consists of ungulates such as deer, elk, moose, and wild boar, but they will prey on smaller mammals when larger prey is scarce. They hunt cooperatively, utilizing coordination and pursuit over long distances, and they adapt their diet to local prey availability.

Reproduction usually occurs once a year, with a breeding season that varies by region. Litters typically include several pups, which are cared for by the entire pack. Juveniles learn hunting and social behaviors through observation and participation in pack activities before dispersing to form new groups.

Conservation status varies by region. The gray wolf (Canis lupus) is listed as Least Concern globally by the IUCN, though regional populations may face threats from habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and illegal hunting. Wolves have a prominent presence in folklore, culture, and environmental discussions as symbols of wilderness, resilience, and ecological importance.