10 Theories Explaining Why the Mighty Dire Wolf Went Extinct

6. Genetic Diversity and Population Bottlenecks

Genetic studies provide another lens through which to examine the dire wolf's extinction. Limited genetic diversity within a species can lead to increased vulnerability to environmental changes and diseases. Fossil evidence suggests that dire wolves experienced several population bottlenecks, reducing their genetic variability. This lack of diversity may have hindered their ability to adapt to rapidly changing conditions. As habitats shifted and competition intensified, the dire wolf's reduced genetic pool could have impeded its evolutionary adaptability, contributing to its eventual extinction. Modern genetic analysis continues to shed light on these ancient dynamics, offering insights into the dire wolf's genetic legacy.