Overview

• Genetic and chemical tests published June 11 show the Tumat specimens are two-month-old wolf cubs rather than domesticated dogs.
• Stomach contents reveal the siblings consumed both plants and large prey, including woolly rhinoceros meat.
• Discovery of black fur in these cubs overturns the idea that the coloration was unique to early dogs.
• Although found beside human-processed mammoth bones, there is no evidence the cubs were tamed or fed on mammoth remains.
• Researchers say the findings challenge assumptions about dog domestication and shed light on Pleistocene wolf size and behavior.