Source: HT
Context: The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has, for the first time, evaluated the Indian wolf (Canis lupus pallipes) as a potential distinct species, listing it as ‘Vulnerable’ on the Red List with only about 3,000 individuals left in the wild
About IUCN Classifies Indian Wolf as ‘Potential Distinct Species’:
- What it is?
- The Indian wolf is one of the most ancient and genetically unique wolf lineages in the world, endemic to the Indian subcontinent.
- Scientific Name: Canis lupus pallipes, commonly referred to as the Peninsular wolf or Indian grey wolf.
- IUCN Status (2025):
- Conservation status: Classified as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
- Population estimate: Only 2,877–3,310 mature individuals remain in the wild across India and Pakistan.
- History:
- Once widespread distribution: The Indian wolf was historically found across northern and western India, from Punjab and Haryana to Rajasthan and Maharashtra, thriving in open plains and semi-arid regions.
- Local extinction in several regions: Due to habitat loss, persecution, and expanding agriculture, the species has now vanished from many areas, including parts of Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh.
- Ancient evolutionary lineage: Fossil and genetic studies show it diverged from other wolf species thousands of years ago, making it one of the oldest wolf lineages in the world.
- Evolution in India’s ecosystems: The species evolved uniquely in India’s semi-arid and grassland ecosystems, long before human civilization spread across the subcontinent.
- Physical Characteristics:
- Smaller and leaner build: The Indian wolf is smaller and slimmer than Himalayan or Eurasian wolves, reflecting adaptation to open and dry landscapes.
- Distinct coat coloration: It has a light brown-grey coat and short fur, which helps it camouflage in scrub and grassland habitats.
- Adaptation to heat: The wolf lacks the thick undercoat found in northern wolves, enabling it to survive in high temperatures and low-rainfall regions.
- Agile and long-limbed: Its long limbs and narrow body allow for speed and endurance during hunting in open terrains.
Other Species and Their Updated IUCN Status (2025)
- Hooded Seal – Upgraded to Endangered
- Bearded Seal – Now classified as Near Threatened
- Harp Seal – Now classified as Near Threatened
- Green Turtle – Now classified as Vulnerable (Downgraded)
