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DIRE WOLF
SCIENTIFIC NAME: Aenocyon dirus guildayi
BEHAVIOR
Dire wolves are the most common carnivore found at La Brea, suggesting these canids hunted in large monogamous packs, similar to modern grey wolves, dholes, and African wild dogs.
DIET
Isotopic analysis of Aenocyon's diet suggests that bison & horse were preferred prey species. Fossilized dental fractures imply a habit of consuming bone during periods of scarcity.
HABITAT
With a range extending from southern Canada to Argentina, Dire wolves occupied an assortment of habitats, including grasslands, woodland and scrubland.
STATS
ESTIMATED MASS: 50 kg
HEIGHT AT SHOULDER: 80 cm
STRATEGY: Pursuit / Kleptoparasite
HABITAT: Woodland / Scrubland
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