SMYRNA – Local non-profit organization Wolf Mountain Nature Center is gearing-up to unveil its two fifteen-week-old wolf puppies, Cypress and Tauriel, to the public at "Pup Introduction Day," this Sunday, July 23 from noon to 4 p.m.

Born on April 8 of this year at nationally-renowned Wolf Park in Indiana, it's reported Cypress and Tauriel made their way to Wolf Mountain Nature Center in exchange for two of Wolf Mountain Nature Center's own wolf puppies that were birthed earlier this year.

The exchange occurred to combat issues associated with inbreeding, says Wolf Mountain Founder and Staff Biologist Will Pryor, and while Wolf Mountain is not in the business of breeding or selling its animals, the organization thought it prudent to assure that its wolves remain out-crossed for the good of the species.

Of the two new pups, Cypress is male and Tauriel female, and they are both Gray Wolves. Tauriel is reportedly named after the elf-warrior-princess of the same name in the film The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug.

The inclusion of the pups at Wolf Mountain Nature Center brings the center's total animals to 14 wolves, four eastern coyotes, and six arctic foxes. Admission to the non-profit center is a donation of $5 or more, and 100 percent of proceeds go toward feeding and caring for the center's animals.

At "Pup Introduction Day" this Sunday, the center reports that there will be ongoing tours, programs, and animal enrichment activities throughout the afternoon. Stewart's of Sherburne will also be providing burgers, hot dogs, snacks, and cold drinks, and the center reminds attendees that the picnic area is open if you would like to bring your own food.