In the late 1980's, domestic dogs were recognized as a threat because they compete with the Ethiopian wolf for food; transmit diseases (such as rabies and canine distemper) and mate with the Ethiopian wolf, thereby hybridizing the species. The dogs are used by local pastoralists to protect their herds from hyenas. The dogs are irregularly fed and roam the highlands freely. They may be the most immediate threat faced by the Ethiopian wolf in Bale Mountains National Park, home of its largest remaining population). Data on Biology and Ecology Size and Weight: The head and body length of an Ethiopian wolf is about 1 m (3.3'). Female Ethiopian wolves average 12.8 kg (11.2 - 14.2 kg) (average 28.2 lb (24.6 - 31.2 lb)); males average 16.2 kg (14.0 - 19.3 kg) (average 35.6 lb (30.8 - 42.5 lb)).

Habitat:
The Ethiopian wolf is confined to isolated pockets of alpine grasslands and heath lands above 3,000 m (10,000') in Ethiopia, where they prey on rodents, such the giant mole rat (Tachyoryctes macrocephalus). Rodent biomass varies several-fold between different habitats, and the abundance of these prey is closely correlated with that of the wolves. Suitable habitats extend from above the tree-line at about 3,200 m (10,500') up to 4,500 m (14,000'), with some wolves present in montane grasslands at 3,000 m (10,000'). However, subsistence agriculture extends up to 3,500 – 3,800 m (11,500' - 12,500') in many areas, restricting wolves to higher ranges. Wolves appear to utilize all available habitats, but they prefer open areas with short (less than 24 cm (10") high) h e r b a c e o u s a n d g r a s s l a n d communities where rodents are most abundant, along flat or gently sloping areas with deep soils and poor drainage in parts. Rainfall at high altitude varies between 1 - 2 m/year (3.3 - 6.6'/year), with one pronounced dry period from December to February/March.) Age to Maturity: Both sexes mature during their second year. Gestation Period: Approximately 60 days.

Birth Season:
In the Bale Mountains, mating generally occurs between August and November, with pups born 2 months later Birth Rate: 2 - 6 pups per litter. Females breed no more than once a year. Only about 60% of dominant females breed) The Ethiopian Wolf Conservation Program has evolved from the hard work and dedication of a handful of conservationists and the local E t h i o p i a n c o m m u n i t i e s . Dr. Claudio Sillero-Zubiri began his work with the Ethiopian wolf (Canis simensis) 16 years ago, tracking and studying this rare red wolf through the highlands and mountains of Ethiopia. His passion for the wolf and its diverse habitat helped inspire others to get involved, and the people from surrounding communities joined in the efforts to help protect the wolf. Dr. Stuart Williams managed the EWCP in Ethiopia for the past four years and was extremely successful in working with the local communities and governments to increase the acceptance and protection for the wolf and for its unique Afro-alpine habitat. He worked closely with the people who share the wolf's land to help meet the needs of both.

EWCP works with local herders and communities to reduce conflict with livestock, to protect wolves from hunting, and to reduce disease transfer from, and inbreeding with, local domestic dogs. With only an estimated 400-500 Ethiopian wolves left in a few isolated populations throughout the country, research and community involvement are crucial to the survival of this unique wolf. As human beings we should help the Ethiopian community to help these rare and magnificent animals.