Wolves may be more likely to become pack leaders if they are infected by common parasites
Scientists with the Yellowstone Wolf Project have found that wolves who become infected with Toxoplasma gondii, a common parasite, are more likely to become leaders in their packs than those who are not
In their research, the team analyzed data from multiple studies of the wolf population in Yellowstone National Park.
Toxoplasmosis is an obligate parasite that infects the protozoa in cells of infected animals.
Toxoplasmosis is a disease that infects almost every warm-blooded animal, including humans.
In most cases, the symptoms of infection are not severe
there is some evidence that suggests that they can lead to an increase in erratically or aggressiveness
the researchers wondered what impact T had. It's possible that gondii might have infections on wolves. They conducted an extensive study of wolves in the park to find out
it could help scientists better understand and predict how disease may affect wild animals. It will also allow them to better identify the diseases that exist within the world’s wildlife.
Researchers then checked out the observers' notes to see if any changes were noted. They did and were concerned about possible stress levels in the wolves because of the changes they saw.
Researchers found that young, infected wolves tended to leave their packs earlier than those uninfected.
The chances of an infected male leaving the group was significantly higher by six months old than an uninfected male
Male wolves usually stay for two to three years, and infected females were 20% more likely to leave their pack by 30 months rather than the normal age of 48.
The researchers also found that infected male coyotes were more than 46 times more likely to become pack leaders than uninfected males
The researchers also found that infection rates were higher in wolves that mingled with cougars
It seems that wolves who are infected with Toxoplasma may have less fear and are more willing to challenge other animals for the alpha position