1778 Falkland Islands Wolf Fox Extinct
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1778 Falkland Islands Wolf Fox Extinct
1778 " The Wolf Fox of Faulklands Islands", a copperplate engraving from Commodore Byrons " An account of a Voyage Round the World". The Falkland Islands Wolf, Dusicyon Australis, was the only large predator on the islands. It became extinct in 1879 as Darwin predicted (see canis antarctus ) because of its tameness and perceived threat to livestock. Byron arrived within a year of its discovery in 1765 and reports here " the master reported at his return, that four creatures of great fierceness, resembling wolves, ran up to their bellies in the water to attack the people in his boat" and adds that " When any of these creatures got sight of our people they ran directly at them, no less than five of them were killed this day". The species was important to Darwins thinking on evolution and ecology. In 2009 genetic studies indicated this species had a long and unique South American history
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6319419
© This image is Paul D. Stewart 2009. Do not reproduce without permission of the photographer at Stewartpauld@aol.com
America Antarctic Beagle Black And White Canid Charles Control Darwin Extinct Extinction Falklands Fitz Roy Islands Lord Mammal Pest Pleistocene South Voyage Wolf Australis Byron Canis Dusicyon Falkland Mono Chrome Over Kill
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print titled "1778 Falkland Islands Wolf Fox Extinct" takes us back in time to the discovery of a remarkable species. The image, a copperplate engraving from Commodore Byron's renowned book "An account of a Voyage Round the World" showcases the now-extinct Falkland Islands Wolf, also known as Dusicyon Australis. As we delve into history, we learn that this wolf fox was the sole large predator inhabiting the Falkland Islands. However, due to its perceived threat to livestock and its tameness towards humans, it met its demise in 1879 as predicted by Charles Darwin himself. The significance of this species goes beyond its extinction; it played an essential role in Darwin's understanding of evolution and ecology. In fact, genetic studies conducted in 2009 revealed that these creatures had a long and unique South American history. The illustration depicted here transports us to one fateful day when four fierce wolf-like creatures emerged from the water with intentions to attack those aboard Commodore Byron's boat. Their aggression led to five casualties on that very day. Through this thought-provoking artwork by Paul D. Stewart from Science Photo Library, we are reminded of humanity's impact on our planet's delicate ecosystems. It serves as a poignant reminder that our actions can have far-reaching consequences for even the most resilient species.
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