What are the adaptations suited to the Ethiopian wolf?

Answer 1

Scientific name: Canis simensis

Order: Carnivora (Carnivores)

Family: Canidae (Canids)

Conservation status: IUCN Red List: Endangered - officially protected in Ethiopia.

Global population: 500 adults and sub-adults, in several populations.

Group of Ethiopian wolves: Pack. In areas with little human interference, packs can have 6 adults, 1--6 yearlings, and 1--13 pups.

Diet: Ethiopian wolves' diets are almost exclusively composed of diurnal rodents. One study revealed that rodents account for 96% of all prey, with the Big-headed Mole Rat being the main food item. In areas where the Big-headed Mole Rat is absent, the wolf will primarily eat the East African Mole Rat.

Subspecies: Canis simensis simensis; occurs north-west of the Rift valley. Its nasal bones are shorter, and

Canis simensis citernii; occurs south-east of the Rift valley. Its coat is redder.

Adaptations

Physical - Ethiopian wolves have a tawny coat with black and white marks to camouflage themselves while hunting its prey.

Behavioural- Ethiopian wolves hunt alone which is due to the small size of their prey and not having to share each kill, but they do live in close-knit territorial packs.

Anatomical- Ethiopian wolves have small, narrow muzzles because their prey lives in burrows. They also have small, sharp, widely-spaced teeth to make it easier to handle prey. Their legs are long for running.