Gray Wolf (Canis Lupus) in Asia - Ecology, Behavior & Conservation

[TheHyenid76]

The aim of this thread is to collect all recorded knowledge about wolves in Asia.


Brief Overview of the Wolf in Asia

Distribution & Status : Gray wolf (Canis lupus) ranged across much of Asia. They are still found in large numbers yet the protection of these animals varies from Country to Country. Population is stable but it is decreasing in some areas.

Habitat : This differs depending on the country but wolves can survive and thrive in the forests of India, deserts of the Arabian peninsula and the snowy regions of the himalayas.

Predator-Prey Relations : The Wolf mostly preys on wild ungulates and domestic livestock (which are major prey for wolves in certain areas). In Asia, the wolf competes with Hyenids, Canids, small and large felids and bears. Other than human beings, no predator has any significant effect on wolves except the Amur Tiger in Russia.

Cultural Status : The image of the wolf varies from country to country. In certain areas it is very respected whereas in other areas they are hated and considered a pest. Public sentiment differs from culture to culture.

Human-Wolf Conflict : Conflict between farmers and wolves are endless. Wolves may kill livestock and farmers often kill them in retaliation. In certain areas, wolves are persecuted and they are less protected than other large carnivores (leopard in Iran for example).

References:

International Wolf Center - Asia At a Glance
Grey Wolf Canis lupus - Canid Specialist Group

Two wolves standing over a livestock kill in the Iran-Turkmenistan borderland. Credits to Dr Mohammad Farhadinia

*This image is copyright of its original author

Reply