For years, animal advocates campaigned for Asha’s release from Natural Bridge, a troubled Virginia zoo. The animal’s new life might be just as problematic.

Female Mexican wolf 2754 — nicknamed Asha — gave birth to five pups on May 8, according to U.S. Fish and Wildlife. Asha and her captive-born mate, M1966, are first-time parents.

Asha’s parents reported her missing around 6:30 that morning, the FBI said. “There was no sign of forced entry and no promising scent trail for search dogs to follow,” according to an FBI post.

The wildlife agency will hold Asha and her mate through next year’s season at the Sevilleta Mexican Wolf Management Facility outside Socorro, New Mexico. “The goal is for F2754 to breed, be ...