Definition & Meaning of "eastern wolf"

What is an "eastern wolf"?

The eastern wolf, also known as the Algonquin wolf, is a fascinating and elusive canid that is found in the eastern regions of North America. It has a unique genetic ancestry, with a mix of gray wolf, eastern coyote, and possibly other canid species. Eastern wolves are typically intermediate in size between gray wolves and coyotes, with a slender body and a varied coat coloration that can range from grayish-brown to reddish-brown. They have adapted to diverse habitats, including forests, wetlands, and mixed landscapes, and are known for their ability to thrive in human-altered landscapes. Eastern wolves are opportunistic hunters, preying on a wide range of mammals, such as white-tailed deer, beavers, and small rodents. They are known for their elusive nature, often avoiding human contact, which makes them challenging to study in the wild. Eastern wolves are considered a species of special concern in many regions due to habitat loss, fragmentation, and human-wildlife conflicts, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect this unique and genetically diverse canid species.