Wolves Around the World: The Ethiopian Wolf
When you see the image of a wolf whether it’s in a drawing, a movie, or even while scrolling, you’re most likely looking at a subspecies of gray wolf. Names like Arctic wolf, Great Plains wolf, or Timber wolf are commonly used. Wolf representation in pop culture typically showcases only this one of the four species of wolves in the world: the gray wolf. In this blog, we’re going to explore a lesser-known species, yet just as impressive: the Ethiopian wolf.
A Quick Guide to the Ethiopian Wolf
Photo Credit: African Wildlife Foundation
Canis simensis, Abyssinian wolf, or ky kebero in Amharic, aka the Ethiopian wolf, roams the highlands of Ethiopia and is considered one of the most endangered animals in Africa. They are characterized by their lengthy limbs, slim appearance, black bushy tails, orangish-red body, and white underbelly. These wolves can weigh anywhere from 24 to 42 pounds, measuring up to 3 feet in length, and have a lifespan as long as 10 years.
Like most wolves, they are extremely family oriented and live in packs ranging from 3 up to 13 members. Their collectivistic instinct fosters a community where teamwork is at the core. Pack members take care of one another, especially each other’s pups. The dens burrowed under rocky terrain contain a series of networks that further strengthen their relationships.
One of the activities they prefer to do solo is hunting. The hunters of the pack track down the finest grass rats and giant mole rats the Ethiopian highlands has to offer. When given the opportunity to go after larger prey like young antelope, lamb, and hares, they will work together to increase their chances of success.
The Current State of the World’s Rarest Canid
Fewer than 500 Ethiopian wolves exist, and they are spread out amongst seven isolated populations throughout the highlands of Ethiopia. These wolves are considered a flagship species for the Afroalpine biome. The balance of the ecosystem can be greatly affected by their lack of presence. Habitat loss and disease are the main threat to the survival of this species.
Organizations like the Ethiopian Wolf Conservation Project (EWCP) have historically treated dogs and wolves for rabies, and more recently, they are combating the Canine Distemper Virus (CDV). CDV is a disease known worldwide and affects both domestic and wild canids. With proper vaccination, this virus is preventable. Although this treatment is more often used on our household dogs, it has become imperative that this care is extended to wolves in efforts to protect them, as well.
In Southern Ethiopia lies the Bale Mountains, which are home to the largest population of Ethiopian wolves of approximately 280 individuals. There are higher breeding rates in these packs, but with that comes higher chances of the spread of pathogens. For example, if CDV reaches unvaccinated packs in Bale, up to 75 percent of their population can be wiped out.
Resilience through Conservation Efforts
The danger of extinction for these rare canids is possible due to the vulnerabilities they face with CDV and habitat loss. However, there is hope on the horizon with organizations like the EWCP. As larger human populations impact Ethiopian wolves’ territory, their vaccination efforts are even more resolute.
If we are talking numbers, in surrounding areas with wolves, 200 dogs were vaccinated daily - that means vet teams of the EWCP have treated about 5,000 dogs each year!
Conservation tools like vaccines and translocating wolves to safe areas unaffected by CDV, encourages environments for packs to thrive, Further enhancing their chances of survival and population growth.
You Can Help Secure a Future for Wolves and Our Environment
Like the EWCP does for the Ethiopian wolf, the California Wolf Center (CWC) fights for the preservation of our Mexican Gray Wolf population here in North America. There are a variety of easy ways you can help the CWC further our mission in the conservation of wolves:
Become a CWC member
Sponsor or name a wolf
Participate in our volunteer opportunities
Donate
Shop in our online gift shop or nature store
Simple spread the word about wolves and CWC’s mission
Even by reading this blog, you are being a part of the solution for a better understanding of wolves and ultimately a better tomorrow. The CWC will continue our unwavering efforts in wolf conservation to secure a healthier world for wolves and all of us who inhabit it!
If you would like to learn more about Ethiopian wolves and support their conservation specifically, you can visit the EWCP website: https://www.ethiopianwolf.org/
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Written by Caitlin D