Texas-based Colossal Biosciences announced the creation of three genetically modified wolf pups, sparking debate over claims of 'de-extinction' success [1]. The company revealed that two males named Romulus and Remus were born in October 2024, followed by a female named Khaleesi in January 2025.

The company modified 20 genes in gray wolves to express traits they believe ancient dire wolves possessed, including larger size, white fur, and more muscular features [1]. The modified animals are being monitored at a secure 2,000-acre facility in an undisclosed northern U.S. location.

However, multiple experts challenge Colossal's characterization of these animals as 'dire wolves.' Professor Vincent Lynch of the University at Buffalo states, "It's not a dire wolf. It's a cloned gray wolf that they transgenically modified to make it look like what we think dire wolves looked like" [1].

The scientific community notes several key limitations to Colossal's claims:

The work has not yet been peer-reviewed or published in scientific journals [1]Only 20 genetic modifications were made out of approximately 19,000 genes [3]True dire wolves diverged from gray wolves between 2.5 to 6 million years ago [3]

This project is part of Colossal's broader de-extinction initiative, which includes plans to revive other extinct species such as the woolly mammoth, dodo bird, and Tasmanian tiger [2]. The company has raised $400 million to support these efforts [1].

While some scientists acknowledge the potential conservation applications of this technology, others question the ecological implications and whether such modified animals could truly fulfill the roles of their extinct counterparts [3].