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Omega Wolves
Historically, the least dominant wolf has been referred to as the omega wolf. This wolf is often a sick or old wolf that is no longer able to fully participate in pack activities. It is rare that an omega wolf was once an alpha. When the alpha becomes too old to breed or competently lead the pack, another wolf takes over. The previous alpha is cared for by the pack but is not treated with much respect and eats after all of the other wolves have eaten. Scientists used to believe that omega wolves were abused and picked on by other wolves and were incompetent fighters and hunters. More accurate scientific observation of wolves over the last several decades, however, has revealed that wolf packs are not at all ruthless. In fact, the dominance hierarchy in wolf society actually helps to minimize fighting.
Alpha Males
The alpha male wolf is perhaps the best-known role in a wolf pack. Alpha males determine when and where to hunt, protect the pack from intruders and aid in care for cubs and juvenile wolves. Contrary to popular mythology, the alpha male is not always the biggest or strongest wolf. Instead, alpha males become alpha based upon their ability to competently direct the actions of the wolf pack. Several studies of alpha male physiology indicate that they have high levels of cortisol, a hormone closely associated with stress. This is likely due to the fact that they are constantly charged with the task of decision-making and protecting the pack, responsibilities that can be very stressful, particularly in harsh environments.
Alpha Females
The alpha female is the alpha male's equal, though each sex fills a different role in the pack. The alpha female chooses the location of the wolves' den and is the primary caregiver for the young during their first 8 to 12 weeks of life. During breeding season and shortly after cubs are born, the alpha female is dominant over the male. She eats before he does and frequently prevents him from coming into close contact with the cubs. At the end of this period, the male becomes dominant to the female and eats before she does.
Middle Pack
Wolves that are neither alpha nor omega wolves are frequently referred to as the middle pack. These wolves are normally the offspring of the alpha male and female. Wolf packs also frequently adopt orphaned wolf cubs or allow other wolves without a pack to join their ranks, so these wolves also are members of the middle pack. The pack leaders nurture these pack members and teach them how to function as adult wolves. When the middle pack members reach maturity, they frequently leave to start their own packs. Some middle pack members, however, never breed and remain with their pack for their entire lives.