In the Russian region of Yakutia, an ancient wolf was discovered frozen in permafrost. This marks the first time a late Pleistocene predator has been found in the world. Scientists are currently conducting an autopsy on the wolf, which is estimated to be around 44,000 years old. The carcass was initially found by residents in Yakutia’s Abyysky district in 2021 and is now being examined by experts at the Yakutia Academy of Sciences.
Yakutia, located in Russia’s Arctic far east, is known for its vast swamps and forests, with almost 95 percent of its land covered in permafrost. The extreme winter temperatures in the area can drop as low as minus 64 degrees Celsius, making it a challenging environment to work in. However, the discovery of this well-preserved carnivorous wolf is unique as most ancient animal remains found in permafrost are herbivores.
Scientists are eager to study the wolf’s remains to gain insights into the ecosystem of Yakutia 44,000 years ago. The wolf is believed to have been an active predator, slightly smaller than cave lions and bears but just as agile and mobile. Its remains will provide valuable information about what it fed on and how it interacted with other ancient predators in the region.
This discovery adds to our growing knowledge about Eurasia’s prehistoric world and provides a glimpse into what life was like tens of thousands of years ago. By studying this predator’s remains, researchers hope to learn more about the environment and wildlife that existed during that time period.
