The Return of the Dire Wolf
TimeAPR 5
Company Claims First De-extinction of Dire Wolves
Above: Wolf Juveniles, Gray Wolf, Mount Ranier, Washington. Image copyright: Ron Reznick/Contributor/VW Pics/Universal Images Group via Getty Images
The Spin
Techno-optimist narrative
The successful creation of these modified wolves represents a groundbreaking achievement in de-extinction technology that could help address biodiversity loss and protect endangered species. The project demonstrates how cutting-edge genetic engineering can be used responsibly to restore lost species while maintaining high standards of animal welfare.
Techno-skeptic narrative
These animals are not true dire wolves but rather genetically modified gray wolves with only a few engineered traits. The project raises disturbing ethical concerns about altering animal genomes and creating artificial versions of extinct species, while potentially diverting resources from protecting currently endangered species.