Colossal Biosciences, a Texas-based biotechnology company renowned for its de-extinction projects, has announced plans to employ advanced gene-editing techniques to bolster the genetic diversity of North Carolina's critically endangered red wolf population. The company, known for efforts to resurrect extinct species like the woolly mammoth and dire wolf, aims to enhance the resilience of the dwindling red wolf population through genetic interventions.

The red wolf (Canis rufus) once roamed extensively across the southeastern United States. However, due to habitat loss, hunting, and interbreeding with coyotes, their numbers have drastically declined. As of February 2025, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimated that only 17 to 19 red wolves remain in the wild, all located in a five-county area of northeastern North Carolina. Additionally, approximately 270 red wolves are maintained in captivity across various facilities.

Colossal Biosciences has engaged in discussions with North Carolina's Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) regarding potential collaboration on red wolf conservation efforts. While these discussions have taken place, as of April 8, 2025, no formal partnership has been established. DNCR spokeswoman Michele Walker stated, "The department met with them as we do with many organizations related to issues and programming under our purview." Despite the absence of a formal agreement, Colossal remains optimistic about future collaboration. Matt James, the company's chief animal officer, expressed encouragement from the meetings, emphasizing the opportunity to make significant strides in red wolf conservation.

The red wolf was first listed as "threatened with extinction" under the Endangered Species Preservation Act in 1967 and later as "endangered" under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. In 1987, a reintroduction program was initiated in North Carolina, leading to a peak wild population of over 100 individuals by 2012. However, the population has since declined due to factors such as human-caused mortality and hybridization with coyotes. In August 2023, the U.S. government settled a lawsuit with conservation groups, committing to releasing more captive-bred red wolves into the wild to bolster the population.

Colossal's initiative raises several social and ethical considerations. The use of gene-editing technologies to conserve endangered species is a novel approach that could revolutionize conservation biology. However, it also prompts questions about the authenticity and ecological roles of genetically engineered animals. For instance, while the company's dire wolf-like creations exhibit physical traits of the extinct species, they lack the learned behaviors and ecological functions of their predecessors. Similarly, introducing genetically modified red wolves into the wild may have unforeseen impacts on the ecosystem and the species' natural behaviors.

The potential collaboration between Colossal Biosciences and North Carolina authorities represents a convergence of cutting-edge biotechnology and traditional conservation efforts. As discussions continue, stakeholders must carefully weigh the benefits of genetic interventions against the ethical and ecological implications to ensure the long-term survival of the red wolf.