please give me a stat block and likely tactics for a dungeons and dragons wolf
Certainly! Here is a stat block and some possible tactics for a wolf in Dungeons and Dragons 5th edition:

**WOLF**:

- Medium beast, unaligned

**Armor Class**: 13 (natural armor)
**Hit Points**: 11 (2d8 + 2)
**Speed**: 40 ft.

**STR**: 12 (+1) **DEX**: 15 (+2) **CON**: 12 (+1) **INT**: 3 (-4) **WIS**: 12 (+1) **CHA**: 6 (-2)

**Skills**: Perception +3, Stealth +4
**Senses**: passive Perception 13
**Languages**: understands the languages of its pack, but can't speak

**Actions**:

**Bite**: Melee Weapon Attack: +3 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (2d4 + 2) piercing damage. If the target is a creature, it must succeed on a DC 11 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.

**Tactics**:

Wolves are pack hunters, so if the wolf is encountered alone, it will likely attempt to flee or hide rather than fight. However, if it is part of a pack, it will be more aggressive and coordinated in its tactics.

In combat, a wolf will try to take advantage of its pack tactics and attempt to flank its targets with other wolves or allies. It will use its high speed and Stealth skill to try to get into a flanking position, and then use its Bite attack to try to knock the target prone, making it easier for the wolf's allies to attack.

If the wolf is outnumbered or badly injured, it may try to disengage and flee to regroup with its pack. Alternatively, if it is defending its territory or pack, it may fight to the death.

Overall, a wolf is a relatively weak individual opponent, but can be dangerous in numbers and with the support of a pack.
I am planing an encounter for 3 new players, how many wolves will they be able to safely deal with while learning the core mechanics?
As a general guideline, an encounter with 3 new players should be challenging but not overwhelming, especially if they are still learning the core mechanics of the game. A single wolf should be a reasonable challenge for a group of three level 1 characters, but two or three wolves could quickly become overwhelming if the players are not careful.

Therefore, I would recommend starting with a single wolf and seeing how the encounter goes. If the players dispatch it relatively easily, you could introduce a second wolf to make the encounter more challenging. If the players are struggling, you could have the wolf retreat or call for reinforcements, or you could adjust the wolf's hit points or damage output on the fly to make the encounter easier or harder as needed.

Remember that as the dungeon master, your primary goal is to create a fun and engaging experience for your players. If they are having a good time and feeling challenged but not overwhelmed, you're doing a good job. And if they're struggling or getting frustrated, it's okay to adjust the encounter or offer guidance to help them learn the game mechanics and strategies.