Maned Wolves
Did you know? Maned wolves are wolves in name only. They are truly in a class all their own.
Lucky the Maned Wolf Going On a Walk with Keeper Rachel
LEFT IN THE WILD
Currently in our care
Meet Our Maned Wolves
When you think of maned animals, you probably think of a lion or a horse. Maned wolves are just that, tall, reddish wolves with beautiful black manes along the back of their necks – except for one small detail. They’re not exactly wolves.
The maned wolf is a member of the Family Canidae (think “canine” or “dog family”) which is related to wolves, foxes and other canids. They are not true wolves but are a distant relative and are actually more closely related to South American bush dogs. They more closely resemble a giant fox, which earned them another nickname “fox on stilts” for their leggy build and fox-like coloration and features.
Wild About Maned Wolves
A Wolf Worth Howling About – Even if They Don’t
“I can tell you why wolves howl. They are communicating to their pack. Maned wolves do not howl. They ‘roar bark,’ which is a deep vocalization. Maned wolves communicate to potential mates—maned wolves do not travel in packs and are solitary.”
Adopt a Maned Wolf Pack
As accredited members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Endangered Wolf Center plays a critical role in the Species Survival Plan for maned wolves through managed breeding, behavioral and reproductive research, and education. Your symbolic adoption helps make all of this possible, and includes a 12-month membership to the Endangered Wolf Center.