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Wolf in BC Exhibits Possible Tool Use with Crab Trap

11/20/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A female wolf in British Columbia pulled a crab trap from the ocean, potentially the first tool use by wild canids.
The Heiltsuk Nation set traps to control invasive green crabs, which were damaged.
Researchers installed cameras and observed the wolf tugging a buoy to retrieve the trap and access the bait.
Experts debate whether this qualifies as tool use, highlighting wolves' cognitive abilities.

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Story summary

A female wolf in British Columbia pulled a crab trap from the ocean, potentially the first tool use by wild canids.
The Heiltsuk Nation set traps to control invasive green crabs, which were damaged.
Researchers installed cameras and observed the wolf tugging a buoy to retrieve the trap and access the bait.
Experts debate whether this qualifies as tool use, highlighting wolves' cognitive abilities.