The Ethiopian wolf, also known as the Simien jackal, is one of the world’s rarest canids. They are found in the Ethiopian highlands, where they survive by foraging and feeding on small prey.
The Ethiopian wolf’s diet is mainly comprised of rodents, which are abundant in its high-altitude habitat.
The giant mole rat, also known as the big-headed African mole rat, is a solitary rodent species that can be difficult for wolves to catch. To do so, the Ethiopian wolves must employ a range of tactics, such as digging, using their long muzzles to reach into the burrow, or simply waiting for the mole rat to come out. With patience, the wolf will eventually have a successful hunt and be rewarded with a tasty meal.
The Ethiopian wolf is a vital part of the highland ecosystem, playing an important role in controlling rodent populations and maintaining the balance of the food chain. However, the species is facing numerous threats, including habitat loss, disease, and interbreeding with domestic dogs. Conservation efforts are underway to protect the species and its habitat, including habitat restoration, anti-disease measures, and education and outreach programs.
Watch the full video below, narrated by none other than Sir David Attenborough:
