The first ecological investigation on grey wolf has been finished in Iran. Initiated in summer 2007, the research project aimed at exploring various eological aspects of the predator in Ghameshlou Wildlife Refuge and National Park in central Iran. Food habits, conflict with local people and population parameters have been the main topics of the research which has been a joint effort between the Iranian Cheetah Society (ICS), Esfahan Department of Environment and Shahid Beheshti University.
High abundance of prey populations, particularly gazelle and wild sheep has provided good base of food for the wolves which together with wild goat comprise the main food items of the creature in the area. Moreover, scat analysis has revealed wolves predation on birds as well as hares. Interview with local people indicate high conflict with the wolves due to livestock depredation.
Snow tracking has resulted in a population of 50 to 70 animals for the area which is supposed to be among the highest densities in arid enviornmnets of Iran. It seems that there has been a significant population increase for the wolves comparing to previous decades, as can be correlated to increased prey populations.
The grey wolf is one of the main predators in Iran with vast occupancy. However, it has been least studied in the country and lack of enough conservation for the species has caused severe decline both for its population as well as range. The Iranian Cheetah Society (ICS) is planning to continue its wolf research efforts through radio-telemetry and genetic surveys in central Iran.
