Injured Arabian Wolf Recovers and Returns to Israeli Desert

An Arabian wolf, found severely injured with broken legs and deep wounds in Israel's Arava desert earlier this July, has made a full recovery and been released back into the wild. The wolf was discovered by Omer Kobi, a farmer from the settlement of Ir Ovot, who alerted the Israel Nature and Parks Authority. An authority ranger, Jamil Atrash, and veterinarian Dr. Roni King assessed the wolf's critical condition.

The wolf was safely sedated and transported to the Safari's wildlife hospital, operated jointly with the Nature and Parks Authority. Examinations revealed severe leg fractures and deep wounds, necessitating complex orthopedic surgery to stabilize the breaks with plates and screws. The surgery was successfully performed by Dr. Matan Orr, assisted by Dr. Ruthie Shabiro and Dr. Dudu Ashar, with support from a veterinary anesthesia team.

Following the surgery, the wolf underwent a challenging two-month rehabilitation period. During this time, it received close medical monitoring, with daily decisions made based on its healing progress. The care aimed to maintain its wild behavior and maximize its chances of returning to nature.

After confirming the fractures had healed and the wolf was fit for independent life, preparations began for its release. Final X-rays verified leg recovery, and the wolf was microchipped and fitted with a Samsung tracking collar to monitor its movements and condition post-release.

This week, the wolf was returned to the exact location where it was found. After emerging from its transport crate, it surveyed its surroundings before running freely into the Arava. The return of a large predator like the Arabian wolf is significant for ecological balance, highlighting the importance of rehabilitating wildlife for conservation efforts in Israel.