Mongabay · Climate & nature

Isle Royale wolves inbred but likely to survive, study says

A study suggests that wolves reintroduced to Isle Royale National Park between 2018 and 2019 have a high probability of long-term survival, despite facing challenges from inbreeding and isolation.

The wolf population on the island, which had dwindled to just two inbred individuals by 2016, was bolstered by the introduction of 19 new wolves. A study published in Conservation Science and Practice indicates an over 80% chance of the wolf population persisting for 20 years.

Despite the positive outlook for survival, inbreeding remains a significant concern for the reintroduced wolves. The study's findings highlight this genetic challenge as a key factor affecting the population's health.

While the wolf population has reportedly grown since the study concluded, a sharp decline in the moose population, the wolves' primary food source, presents an additional threat to the island's ecosystem.

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