- This marks the first discovery of its kind
- Yakutia is known for its permafrost
- This particular wolf was likely a formidable predator
Scientists in Russia are studying a remarkably well-preserved wolf carcass that was frozen in permafrost for a staggering 44,000 years.
This marks the first discovery of its kind, offering a glimpse into the ancient world of Yakutia.
Locals in the Abyysky district of Yakutia stumbled upon the wolf’s remains in 2021. Yakutia, a vast region in Russia’s far east, is known for its permafrost, which can reach depths of hundreds of meters.
The extreme cold, often reaching minus 64 degrees Celsius, acts as a natural freezer, sometimes preserving prehistoric creatures in remarkable detail.
“This is the world’s first discovery of a late Pleistocene predator,” said Albert Protopopov, a scientist at the Yakutia Academy of Sciences. Typically, permafrost yields herbivores that became stuck in swamps and froze. This large carnivore is a unique find.
While the melting of permafrost due to climate change is a concern, it’s also revealing these hidden treasures.
This particular wolf was likely a formidable predator, smaller than cave lions and bears but highly mobile and opportunistic.
For scientists like Artyom Nedoluzhko, the wolf’s remains hold immense potential. He believes it can provide valuable insights into the ecosystem of Yakutia 44,000 years ago.
