Wolves Can Follow The Gaze Of A Human

The article this current event is based on is found here.

Dogs, as commonly known, are social companion that follow our every look and move. While some scientists have argued that there is a distinct difference between the two species, wolves also key into our looks and actions, and have even passed a gazing test that dogs have failed. These results can help researchers better understand evolution of these gazing abilities. Wolves have usually seemed uninterested in human actions, as opposed to dogs who intently follow these actions. A group of scientists raised nine wolf pups, which were taught common tricks such as "sit", "lie down", and "roll over". At 14 weeks of age, these pups were tested on their ability to follow a person's gaze, of which 6 of the pups passed. At 23 weeks all of the pups passed the test.

As an ability that was once thought to be possessed by only humans, considering that we understand that others have thoughts and feelings, I find it very interesting that other species also possess similar abilities. I don't find it very surprising that the wolf is capable of this like the common household dog is. Part of me wants to go perform such a test on my dogs. I hope more research can come out of the evolution line of these closely related creatures.

--Brittany Graham;
5th/6th Period;
Current Event 4.