In a rare discovery, researchers have documented Ethiopian wolves feeding on the nectar of Ethiopian red hot poker flowers. Experts consider this a rare occurrence, as these are the first carnivores to feed on nectar. The new findings published in the journal Ecology highlight this newly documented behavior of Ethiopian wolves (Canis simensis). It also states that the carnivores feeding on the nectar might themselves act as pollinators.

According to experts, this incident classifies as the first-ever plant-pollinator interaction involving a large carnivore such as a wolf. The researchers at the Ethiopian Wolf Conservation Programme (EWCP) kept a vigil on the Ethiopian wolves for nectar from the Ethiopian red hot poker flower (Kniphofia foliosa). They shared that sometimes individual wolves would visit 30 blooms in a single visit.

Additionally, adults would bring the juveniles to the flower fields, showcasing a scenario of "social learning". During the act the wolves' muzzles would be coated with pollen, sometimes leading these to even transfer between flowers. Researchers classify this as "plant-pollinator interactions".

Dr Sandra Lai, EWCP Senior Scientist and the lead author of the study noted that researchers still have to learn a lot about these carnivores, which are "one of the world's most threatened." She revealed that habitat fragmentation and loss are threatening this unique biodiverse ecosystem.

According to the Ecology journal, researchers tracked six different Ethiopian wolves for four consecutive days in late May to early June 2023. It said that "typically, the wolf approached a stalk and licked the most mature flowers located at the bottom of the inflorescence and containing the most nectar". Interestingly, NewScientist reported that nectar-feeding is highly unusual for large carnivores like wolves, as they lack physical adaptations such as long tongues or specialized snouts.

However, a LiveScience report noted that it's not clear whether or not the wolves are "effective pollinators." It also shared that nectar is not a major component of the wolves' diet, and further study is needed to understand how frequently they visit the flowers.

Professor Claudio Sillero described the nectar as "pleasantly sweet" and said, "I am chuffed that we have now reported this behaviour as being commonplace among Ethiopian wolves and explored its ecological significance."