New research shows that grey wolves are changing their diets in response to climate change. As winters warm, these wolves are eating tougher foods, like bones, to get enough nutrition. This study was led by the University of Bristol and published in Ecology Letters. It has important implications for wolf conservation across Europe and beyond.
Researchers used a technique called Dental Microwear Texture Analysis (DMTA) to compare the teeth of wolves from different periods. They looked at samples from about 200,000 years ago, when summers were similar to today’s but with colder winters; 125,000 years ago, with milder winters; and modern-day wolves in Poland, where winters are getting warmer.
By examining tiny scratches and pits on wolf molars, the team learned about the wolves’ diets right before they died. “The findings show that wolves from warmer times consumed harder foods compared to those from colder periods,” said Professor Danielle Schreve, a co-author of the study. Interestingly, modern wolves from Poland, living in warmer climates, showed similar patterns, indicating they are facing hidden ecological challenges.
Wolves in warmer climates are eating harder foods, a behavior known as durophagy. Lead author Dr. Amanda Burtt noted, “Wolves are working harder for nutrition during these warmer periods. They’re scavenging more or consuming parts of prey they would typically avoid.” This highlights a shift in dietary habits due to climate changes.
Wolves typically thrive in cold, snowy environments. Deep snow makes it easier for them to hunt prey like deer, as herbivores struggle to find food. However, warmer winters disrupt this balance, making hunting tougher. Wolves must adapt by taking more risks, leading to more energetically costly feeding strategies. In Poland, some wolves have adapted by hunting near farmland or scavenging roadkill, but those farther from human areas may face tougher times ahead.
Dr. Neil Adams from the Natural History Museum emphasized the importance of using fossil records to inform modern conservation efforts. “During this biodiversity and climate crisis, we must fully utilize collections to tackle conservation issues,” he said.
Overall, this study shows that climate change is a significant factor in wolf conservation planning. As temperatures rise, understanding how wolves adapt will be crucial for their survival.
