MANED WOLF Chrysocyon brachyurus MAMMAL Order Carnivora Description 1-3.5 ft long, 2.5 ft high at shoulder, tail 18 in, about 50 lbs. Red coat with black legs, muzzle and "mane" (patch of long, erect hairs across the shoulders); white under chin, inside ears and tip of tail. No underfur. Pups born black with white-tipped tail. Largest canid in South America. Range central and southern Brazil, Paraguay, northern Argentina, eastern Bolivia and southeastern Peru. Status This species is listed as endangered and commercial trade of this species is regulated by international law. Its range has decreased dramatically in recent years, in part due to hunting, but also due to disease. Because it is so rare, any habitat destruction in its current range would have an extreme adverse effect on its numbers. The Lincoln Park Zoo is a member of the Maned Wolf SSP.

Ecology Habitat marsh, grassland and scrub forest Niche omnivorous opportunist: feeds on small mammals, birds, reptiles and fish as well as insects and seasonally available fruit. Usually nocturnal and shy, but will be active during the day in areas uninhabited by humans. Solitary; territorial pairs appear to be monogamous, but avoid each other except during the breeding season. Zoo animals are kept successfully in pairs. Life History 2-5 pups born blind, usually Jun-Sep. Litter is weaned after 15 wks and pups mature after about a year. Young are raised in a den made in tall grass or thickets. Males help to care for young and will regurgitate food for them in captivity, but little is known of parenting behavior in wild pairs. Captive life span 12-15 yrs. Special Adaptations Long legs permit animal to see well above tall grass. Two middle toe pads joined at base, allowing foot to spread, increasing the surface area in contact with marshy ground. Mane, when held erect, gives the impression of greater size to other individuals. Lack of underfur that is typically present in other canids may help to keep animal from overheating in tropical climates. Large, erect ears act as heat radiators as well as sound detectors.