The maned wolf is a tall, red, long-legged canid of South America’s grasslands. Shy and solitary, it is one of the most unusual members of the dog family.
Interesting facts
- It is the tallest wild dog in the world, with very long black legs.
- It is neither a true wolf nor a fox, but the only member of its genus.
- About half of its diet can be fruit, especially the tomato-like ‘lobeira’ or wolf apple.
- Its long legs help it see over tall grass.
- It appears on Brazil’s 200-real banknote.
- At the Caraça Sanctuary in Brazil, maned wolves come to the church steps at night to be fed.
Behaviour
Maned wolves are solitary and mostly nocturnal. Pairs share territories but rarely spend time together outside the breeding season. They hunt by listening for prey in tall grass and pouncing.
Breeding and young
After about two months, females give birth to two to six pups in dense vegetation. Both parents may help raise them.
Threats and conservation
Conversion of grasslands to farmland, road deaths, diseases from domestic dogs and persecution.
Where to see it
- Caraça Sanctuary, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Serra da Canastra National Park, Brazil
- Emas National Park, Brazil
- Iberá wetlands, Argentina
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
