Wolves

Wolves are carnivorous, furry, canine beasts that often run in packs. Wolves encountered in the wilderness are typically hostile and attack characters that approach them too closely. They can howl loudly enough to be heard for miles.

Species

Resting Wolf by Gary Kramer

The wolf (Canis lupus; pl.: wolves), also known as the gray wolf or grey wolf, is a large canine native to Eurasia and North America. More than thirty subspecies of Canis lupus have been recognized, including the dog and dingo, though gray wolves, as popularly understood, only comprise naturally-occurring wild subspecies. The wolf is the largest extant member of the family Canidae, and is further distinguished from other Canis species by its less pointed ears and muzzle, as well as a shorter torso and a longer tail. The wolf is nonetheless related closely enough to smaller Canis species, such as the coyote and the golden jackal, to produce fertile hybrids with them. The wolf's fur is usually mottled white, brown, gray, and black, although subspecies in the arctic region may be nearly all white. Of all members of the genus Canis, the wolf is most specialized for cooperative game hunting as demonstrated by its physical adaptations to tackling large prey, its more social nature, and its highly advanced expressive behaviour, including individual or group howling. It travels in nuclear families consisting of a mated pair accompanied by their offspring. Offspring may leave to form their own packs on the onset of sexual maturity and in response to competition for food within the pack. Wolves are also territorial, and fights over territory are among the principal causes of mortality. The wolf is mainly a carnivore and feeds on large wild hooved mammals as well as smaller animals, livestock, carrion, and garbage. Single wolves or mated pairs typically have higher success rates in hunting than do large packs. Pathogens and parasites, notably the rabies virus, may infect wolves.

Kara'Kar

Orc Raider by Chris Rahn

The orcs on Kara'Kar managed to breed wolves that were big enough to ride upon. Instead of domesticating the horse, the orcs domesticated the wolf. The transformation of wolf to warg took many years of breeding and selecting for traits. This is what happened to the horse when humans domesticated the horse many years ago. They are also a major symbol to the orcs. These massive canines came to be the orcs’ chosen companions as well as their favored method of transportation. The wolves’ unflinching temperament made them especially well-suited for battling large prey. Wolves serve as guards, scouts, pets, and partners. The large cousins of the wolf, the wargs, are used as mounts for orcs.
Orcs and other Horde shamans hold them in high regard. They can speak to them and summon spectral wolves, and some serve a giant wolf spirit. The attire of orc shaman often feature wolves, especially headgear in the form of wolf heads.