Toxoplasmosis and wolves
2024-02-01 19:54:54.484859+01 by Dan Lyke 0 comments
Those of you familiar with toxoplasmosis and T. gondii in humans already know the answer to this headline: Something Strange Happens to Wolves Infected by Infamous Mind-Altering Parasite
Infected wolves were also way more likely to become pack leaders. T. gondii may increase testosterone levels, which could in turn lead to heightened aggression and dominance, which are traits that would help a wolf assert itself as a pack leader.
In humans it's also linked to schizophrenia, which kinda meshes with that whole "pack leader" thing: Toxoplasmosis and behavioural changes doi: 10.1016/j.jfo.2020.01.001.