The three dire wolf pups brought back to life by Colossal Biosciences are thriving, with two of them, Romulus and Remus, growing to more than twice their original size. These animals, inspired by the ancient species that lived thousands of years ago, are genetically modified grey wolves designed to resemble dire wolves.
Using DNA from fossils, scientists edited grey wolf genes to create these pups, who were born through surrogate domestic dogs. While not true dire wolves, these pups carry about 20 gene changes to mimic the extinct species.
Romulus and Remus now weigh over 90 pounds at six months old, about 20% larger than usual grey wolves. Their sister Khaleesi, younger and smaller, is also bigger than average for her age.
Before Khaleesi joins her brothers, researchers are making sure they will get along well. Meanwhile, Remus has taken the lead as the alpha, showing intelligence and watchfulness, while Romulus acts as the beta, leading the way during feeding and play.
