Apr 12, 2025

7 things to know about the Dire wolves

Anushka Roy Choudhary

Has the dire wolf returned? Here's what we know so far.

Colossal Biosciences, a biotech company in Texas, has brought the extinct dire wolf back to life.

Source: twitter

What is a dire wolf?

The dire wolf, the real-life Game of Thrones inspiration, was a strong predator with a muscular build, heavier than other wolves.

Source: twitter

How are dire wolves different from regular wolves?

Dire wolves aren't closely related to grey wolves; they evolved separately millions of years ago.

Source: twitter

How did scientists revive the dire wolf?

Scientists took DNA from a 13,000-year-old tooth and a 72,000-year-old ear bone. Using CRISPR, a tool that cuts DNA, they worked to revive the dire wolf.

Source: twitter

Who are Romulus, Remus and Khalessi?

Romulus and Remus, both male, were born on October 1, 2024, and Khaleesi, female, was born on January 30, 2025.

Source: twitter

Why bring it back?

Colossal says the project advances genetic engineering and could help conserve species with limited genetic diversity.

Source: twitter

Are dire wolves really back?

Colossal Biosciences called these animals "de-extincted" dire wolves, but some experts believe they are just genetically modified grey wolves, not real dire wolves.

Source: twitter

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