Wolves have been missing from the pine tree dotted wilderness of Maine for over a century. The last known Maine wolf population dwindled to zero in the late 1870s, however, occasional sightings were still reported in northern Maine until the dawn of the 20th century. It is likely that overhunting made them disappear from the area. Maine’s dense forests and diverse population of small mammals make it a perfect location for the majestic hunters to thrive, and hopefully one day they can return. And while it has been officially stated that wolves are no longer roaming Maine’s forests, many people still have their doubts.

As it stands right now, the only creature similar to the wolf known to still linger throughout the state is the coyote. In Maine, black bears, coyotes, and fisher cats are the top predators. With a diet that is mostly carnivorous, the coyote feeds on many small animals. Unlike their close relative, the wolf, coyotes were not endangered by hunting. In fact, they are listed as “no concern” on the endangered species list. In my opinion, coyotes are quite frankly an abundant nuisance, and I could definitely live without hearing packs of them incessantly howling in my yard for hours on end.

Last week it was confirmed that a hybrid species had been found in Maine. According to the article, it is believed that these creatures are a “cross between the eastern wolves of the Great Lakes region and western coyotes.” The result of this hybridization has created coyotes that are nearly twice the normal size. It is unclear exactly how these creatures began showing up in the state, but nature has taken its course, and they seem to be adjusting quite well to their surroundings. The existence of this species also raises a question as to whether or not the Maine wolf is actually extinct.

If these creatures really are hybrids, one can speculate that wolves are slowly starting to regain prominence throughout the United States, and as a result their populations are moving throughout the country.

Maine truly is the ideal habitat for wolves, and one can only hope to see them return in the near future. Given the fact that wolves are protected under the endangered species act, breeding them in Maine would allow the population to flourish once again. Until then, Mainers will have the rising population of the unique creatures, known as “coywolves” to fill the void.

There’s a new coyote-wolf hybrid appearing in Maine’s forests