The maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus) is a canid native to South America, with a distinctive appearance. Despite its name, this animal is not a true wolf, nor is it a fox, though it shares some resemblances with both. Its unique physical characteristics have led to common misunderstandings about its classification and overall size.
Measuring the Maned Wolf
The maned wolf stands out among canids due to its height, making it the tallest wild canid. An adult maned wolf stands around 90 to 110 centimeters (35 to 43 inches) tall at the shoulder. While tall, these animals are relatively slender, weighing between 20 and 30 kilograms (44 to 66 pounds).
Their body length, from head to the base of the tail, ranges from 100 to 132 centimeters (39 to 52 inches). The tail adds 28 to 45 centimeters (11 to 18 inches). Despite their height, their lean build means they are not as heavy or robust as some other large canid species.
Distinctive Proportions and Appearance
The maned wolf’s tall stature comes from its exceptionally long, slender legs, which give it a “stilted” appearance. This adaptation helps them navigate and see over the tall grasses of their native South American grasslands and savannas, aiding in hunting prey and detecting threats.
A black mane runs along its neck and back. This mane can become erect when the maned wolf feels threatened or excited, making the animal appear larger. Its fur is reddish-brown to golden-orange, contrasting with black legs and muzzle, and typically includes a white throat patch and tail tip. Their large, erect ears are highly sensitive and rotate independently to locate prey in dense vegetation.
Maned Wolves Compared to Other Canids
The maned wolf is genetically distinct from true wolves and foxes, belonging to its own genus, Chrysocyon, meaning “golden dog.” This classification highlights its isolated evolutionary path within the canid family. It is the largest canid in South America.
Compared to true wolves like the gray wolf, maned wolves are taller but much lighter and less muscular. A gray wolf can weigh over 45 kilograms (100 pounds), sometimes reaching 80 kilograms (176 pounds), making them heavier than the maned wolf, which rarely exceeds 30 kilograms. This robust build contrasts sharply with the maned wolf’s lean physique.
The maned wolf is sometimes called a “fox on stilts” due to its reddish coat and long legs, yet it is much larger than any fox. Red foxes are substantially smaller. Maned wolves are generally taller than coyotes, which also weigh less. The maned wolf’s body plan underscores its specialized adaptations to its South American grassland habitat, setting it apart from more familiar canids.