Mackenzie River wolf facts for kids
The Mackenzie River wolf (Canis lupus mackenzii) is a special kind of gray wolf. It's known as a subspecies, which means it's a specific type of gray wolf that lives in a certain area and has some unique features. You can find these wolves in the southern part of Canada's Northwest Territories.
Scientists recognize the Mackenzie River wolf as a distinct subspecies of Canis lupus. This recognition comes from important scientific books like Mammal Species of the World (2005).
Quick facts for kids Mackenzie River wolf |
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Scientific classification  |
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| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Mammalia |
| Order: | Carnivora |
| Family: | Canidae |
| Genus: | Canis |
| Species: | |
| Subspecies: |
C. l. mackenzii
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| Trinomial name | |
| Canis lupus mackenzii Anderson, 1943 (1908)
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| Historical and present range of gray wolf subspecies in North America | |
Where Do Mackenzie River Wolves Live?
These wolves make their home in the vast and wild lands of Canada. Specifically, they live in the southern part of the Northwest Territories. This area includes places like the recently established Thaidene Nëné National Park Reserve.
The Northwest Territories is a huge region with lots of forests, lakes, and open spaces. This kind of environment is perfect for wolves, as it provides plenty of space to roam and hunt.
How Are Mackenzie River Wolves Studied?
Even though the Mackenzie River wolf is a recognized subspecies, scientists haven't published a lot of detailed information about them. One of the most important studies was done a long time ago, in 1954.
This study was carried out by W.A. Fuller for the Canada Wildlife Service. It was called "Wolf Control Operations, Southern Mackenzie District." This research helped us learn more about these wolves and how they live in their natural habitat. Scientists continue to learn more about wolves and their behaviors today.
What is a Subspecies?
A subspecies is like a special branch on a family tree. All gray wolves belong to the same species, Canis lupus. But within that species, there are different groups that have adapted to live in specific places.
These groups, or subspecies, might have slight differences in their size, fur color, or behavior. They are still very similar to other gray wolves, but they have unique traits because of where they live. The Mackenzie River wolf is one such unique group.
