Woolly rhino genome recovered from meat in frozen wolf pup’s stomach

New ScientistWednesday, January 14, 2026 at 5:01:56 PM
NeutralScience
Woolly rhino genome recovered from meat in frozen wolf pup’s stomach
  • Genetic material from a woolly rhinoceros was recovered from the stomach of a mummified wolf pup that lived 14,400 years ago, providing new insights into the extinction of this iconic megafauna species. The discovery was made in Siberia, where researchers analyzed the remains of the two-month-old female wolf cub, revealing a piece of woolly rhino flesh.
  • This finding is significant as it enhances the understanding of the ecological dynamics during the last glacial period and the factors that contributed to the woolly rhinoceros's extinction. It underscores the importance of studying ancient ecosystems to grasp the evolutionary history of species.
  • The research also highlights the evolutionary connection between wolves and domestic dogs, as both share genetic material, tracing back thousands of years. This connection emphasizes the broader themes of adaptation and survival in changing climates, as well as the ongoing interest in how ancient species interacted with their environments and each other.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended apps based on your readingExplore all apps
Continue Readings
Scientists Find Extinct Rhino DNA in Wolf Pup Mummy’s Stomach
PositiveScience
Scientists have successfully sequenced the genome of the woolly rhinoceros, a species that has been extinct for thousands of years, from remains discovered in the stomach of a naturally mummified Pleistocene wolf pup. This significant finding sheds light on the dietary habits and ecological interactions of these ancient species during the Pleistocene epoch.
Wolf’s dinner preserved in Siberia for 14,400 years sheds light on woolly rhino
PositiveScience
Researchers have uncovered insights into the woolly rhinoceros by analyzing a mummified wolf cub's stomach contents, revealing a hairy lump of meat that dates back 14,400 years. The remains of the two-month-old female wolf cub were found in Siberia, believed to have perished due to a landslide that collapsed its den.
Psychiatry has finally found an objective way to spot mental illness
PositiveScience
Psychiatry has made significant strides in identifying objective biomarkers for mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression, marking a pivotal moment in the field. This breakthrough comes after decades of research aimed at providing clearer diagnostic tools for mental health conditions.
14,000-year-old woolly rhinoceros DNA extracted from wolf’s stomach
NeutralScience
Scientists have successfully extracted DNA from a 14,000-year-old woolly rhinoceros found in the stomach of a mummified wolf pup, shedding light on the extinction of this prehistoric species. The discovery was made in Siberia, where the remains of the wolf pup, believed to have lived around 14,400 years ago, were analyzed. This significant finding provides new insights into the diet and ecological interactions of these ancient animals.
T. rex took 40 years to become fully grown
NeutralScience
An analysis of growth rings in the leg bones of 17 Tyrannosaurus rex individuals indicates that these dinosaurs took approximately 40 years to reach full maturity, suggesting a slower growth rate than previously believed. This finding contributes to the understanding that T. rex may not represent a single species but rather a more complex evolutionary lineage.
We must completely change the way we build homes to stay below 2°C
PositiveScience
Construction is responsible for 10 to 20 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, prompting calls for a complete overhaul in building practices to maintain global temperatures below 2°C. Efficient design and sustainable materials are essential to mitigate the climate impact of urban development.
Sooner-than-expected climate impacts could cost the world trillions
NegativeScience
A recent report indicates that the world may face climate impacts sooner than anticipated, potentially costing trillions due to underestimated warming rates that threaten economic growth.
The Pacific Islanders fighting to save their homes from catastrophe
NegativeScience
Pacific Islanders are facing severe challenges due to climate change, with extreme weather events leading to home loss and displacement. Those who remain are implementing innovative adaptation strategies to secure their futures amidst these escalating threats.

Ready to build your own newsroom?

Subscribe to unlock a personalised feed, podcasts, newsletters, and notifications tailored to the topics you actually care about