The maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus) is an unmistakable canid native to the open grasslands and scrublands of South America. It is the largest canid on the continent, characterized by a reddish-orange coat, an upright black mane, and unusually long, slender legs. Despite its common name, genetic studies show it is not a true wolf but the sole member of its own genus, making it a distinct species. These disproportionate limbs have earned it the nickname “fox on stilts,” reflecting how its specialized physical traits are linked to its locomotion and survival in the tall-grass habitats of the Cerrado.
Maximum Speed Capabilities
The maned wolf is capable of impressive short-distance sprints, reaching a maximum reported burst speed of approximately 47 miles per hour (75.6 kilometers per hour). This velocity is achieved only in brief, powerful bursts, typically when pouncing on prey or evading a perceived threat. Its speed functions as a sudden acceleration tool, not a mechanism for prolonged pursuit.
The animal’s long limbs allow it to cover significant ground with each stride during a full gallop. However, this top speed is unsustainable, and the maned wolf is not an endurance runner like some other large canids. Its usual pace for foraging and traveling is a much slower, energy-efficient walk or trot, which is better suited for patrolling its large territory over long periods.
Physical Features That Aid Locomotion
The maned wolf’s movement is fundamentally shaped by its unique anatomy, particularly its exceptionally long tibias and metatarsals. These elongated leg bones contribute to the animal’s impressive shoulder height, which can reach nearly three feet. This elevation provides a distinct advantage for navigating and scanning the tall grasses of the South American savanna, rather than primarily aiding speed.
At slower speeds, the maned wolf often employs a specific pacing gait. This involves moving both the front and hind legs on the same side of the body simultaneously, resembling the movement of a camel or giraffe. Pacing is an energy-saving technique for traveling long distances across uneven terrain during its extensive nightly foraging sessions. The animal’s large, erect ears also play a role, constantly rotating to pinpoint the subtle sounds of small prey hidden within the dense vegetation.
How the Maned Wolf Uses Its Speed
The maned wolf’s speed is a tool for rapid capture and evasion, reflecting its status as a solitary hunter rather than a pursuit predator. It relies on stealth and its ability to listen intently for prey rustling in the grass. Once prey is located, the animal executes a short, explosive dash followed by a characteristic vertical pounce onto the target.
This sudden burst of speed and agility secures small prey, such as rodents, armadillos, and ground birds, which form the non-plant portion of its omnivorous diet. The height afforded by the long legs is arguably more important than pure speed, allowing the wolf to visually track and target small movements above the thick foliage. Maximum sprint speed is also deployed defensively to quickly escape from potential danger, such as a larger predator or human presence.