Two rare black wolves, likely siblings, were recently captured on camera crossing a stream in a Polish forest, as reported by a conservation organization. The footage, recorded by a project coordinator, has sparked interest in studying the genetics of these unique wolves by collecting their droppings in the forest.
The black wolves were spotted on video camera initially set up to study beavers, showcasing the unexpected encounter with these elusive creatures. The footage shows the black wolves, along with a gray wolf, navigating the stream in the forest, providing a rare glimpse into their behavior.
Black fur in wolves is a result of a genetic mutation that traces back to domesticated dogs thousands of years ago. While black fur is rare in Europe due to reduced genetic diversity, it is more prevalent in places like Yellowstone National Park in the United States.
Estimated to be around a year old and weighing approximately 30 kilograms, the black wolves are believed to be siblings traveling together. The conservation organization, which has been monitoring wolves in Poland for over a decade, is safeguarding the wolves' location to protect them from poaching and misinformation.
Wolves were nearly extinct in Poland by the 1950s but have made a remarkable comeback in recent years, particularly in the central part of the country. Efforts are being made to educate the public on coexisting safely with wolf populations in the region.
The conservation fund has reached out for financial support to conduct genetic testing on the wolves' droppings to gain further insights into the black-fur mutation. This discovery sheds light on the fascinating world of these majestic creatures and underscores the importance of conservation efforts to protect their habitats.
