Introduction of the South American Maned Wolf

Originating from the grasslands of South America, the maned wolf is quite a unique animal to behold. Resembling a large fox with huge pointy ears this creature grows up to over 3 feet in length. Weighing between 50 to 55 pounds, making it intimidating to other large canines. With a beautiful reddish-brown long fur along with white coloration on its chin, tail and throat.

The maned wolves main diet consists of wild rodents like the cuis, a small guinea pig animal. They also dine on rabbits, reptiles, insects and birds. Occasionally eating sugarcane, fruits and various plants. Giving the maned wolf a wide variety of food sources.

Preferring to be out and about during the night, a maned wolf is mainly a nocturnal animal in nature. Resting under the forest canopy in the daytime and hunting for food until sunrise. A relatively shy canine, the maned wolf tends to steer clear on human beings. However, if they feel threatened or scared, won't hesitate to show their strength and power.

April is when the maned wolf breeds, choosing one mate in which they spend the rest of their life with. The wolf pups are born between September and August, with the mother giving birth of up to 5 babies at once. Having a lifespan of twelve to fifteen years.

Due to agricultural development, the maned wolf is slowly losing its natural habitat. Therefore, isolating them from the rest of their kind, and making it difficult for these wolves to breed. Plus, because of land erosion and overgrazing of cattle in the area, have a loss in food resources as well. That is why they sometimes venture onto the properties of local farmers in search of something to eat. Unfortunately, end up getting shot and killed. However, thanks to special breeding programs, is successfully making a comeback.