Research context: Observations in Yellowstone have linked black coat coloration in wolves with differences in susceptibility to canine distemper. A color trait can be associated with immune-system genetics, but that does not mean black fur itself protects an animal or that the pattern applies to every wolf population. The embedded 2021 post is a starting point for the research question rather than a universal survival rule.
Did you know that a wolf's coat color could potentially indicate disease resistance?
In Yellowstone, black wolves have higher survival rates when exposed to canine distemper than do wolves with gray coats, along with strong reproductive success + more. ➡ https://t.co/SgTvkVUgGA pic.twitter.com/qqSXynvQh8
— Wolf Conservation Center (@nywolforg) June 28, 2021