Ethiopian Wolf:
Ethiopian wolf as a rare example of a nectar-feeding carnivore, potentially contributing to the pollination of plants.
- The Ethiopian wolf is a specialized rodent hunter in Afroalpine ecosystems, a unique African high-altitude region.
- These ecosystems, located mainly in the Ethiopian Highlands, exist at altitudes of 3,200 meters above sea level and are characterized by cold and harsh climates.
- The wolf is about the size of a large dog, with a reddish coat, white throat and chest markings, and a bushy black tail.
- With fewer than 500 individuals remaining, the Ethiopian wolf is Africa’s most endangered carnivore.
- It resides in isolated “sky islands”, high-altitude regions above tropical forests, surrounded by drastically different lowland environments.
- It feeds on the nectar of the red and yellow Ethiopian red hot poker flower, a plant that produces sweet nectar attracting multiple pollinators.
- As the wolf moves between flowers, pollen dusts its muzzle, potentially aiding in pollination.
- Researchers observed wolves spending significant time in flower fields, with one wolf visiting 30 flower heads in 1.5 hours.
- This behavior indicates that the wolf actively seeks nectar, a rare trait for large carnivores.
