Dire Wolf Skull

The dire wolf of the tar pits is known as Canis (Aenocyon) dirus Leidy. The origin of the dire wolf is unknown. But its seemingly unheralded appearance in North America about 200,000 years ago suggest that it originated elsewhere, possibly South America. The dire wolf ranged over the entire North American continent, at least as far north as central Canada and as far south as central Mexico. This extinct species of dire wolf has been found at Rancho La Brea tar pits in large numbers and is listed as an important member of the canine family.

Grim wolf is a perfectly proper and accurate translation of the dire wolf. Truculent to the extreme, this creature found its victims among the slow moving mammals and stationary live bait of the tar pits, but when necessary, was a veteran of the chase as well. The comparatively light limbs and very massive head show that the dire wolf was not as well developed for running as are the recent species of wolf and coyote, although if needed, he could pursue his distant prey over hill and valley with unwearied pertinacity.

More on the dire wolf can be found in the museum....