Winter Wolf
Large Monstrosity, neutral evil
700 XP
Special Abilities
Keen Hearing and Smell
The wolf has advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on hearing or smell.
Pack Tactics
The wolf has advantage on an attack roll against a creature if at least one of the wolf's allies is within 5 ft. of the creature and the ally isn't incapacitated.
Snow Camouflage
The wolf has advantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks made to hide in snowy terrain.
Actions
Bite
Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) piercing damage. If the target is a creature, it must succeed on a DC 14 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.
Cold Breath (Recharge 5-6)
The wolf exhales a blast of freezing wind in a 15-foot cone. Each creature in that area must make a DC 12 Dexterity saving throw, taking 18 (4d8) cold damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.
Quick Reference
Running This Encounter
Winter Wolves are intelligent pack hunters that use their lair advantage and cold environment. Position them in snowy terrain where they can use their speed (50 ft.) to control distance and employ hit-and-run tactics. Use their intelligence to coordinate pack movements and exploit terrain features like crevasses or blizzards. Have them retreat to their den if heavily wounded, potentially leading to a pursuit encounter.
Combat Tactics
Winter Wolves prioritize using their Freezing Breath (DC 15 CON save, 45 ft. cone, 22 cold damage) on grouped enemies before closing in for melee attacks. They use their speed to kite slower party members and focus fire on spellcasters, while the pack coordinates to flank and gain advantage.
Environment & Setting
Snowy mountain peaks, frozen tundras, or icy caverns where blizzards provide concealment and difficult terrain slows pursuers. An isolated cave den with multiple exits allows them to execute tactical retreats.