The maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus) is a distinctive canid species native to South America. It inhabits grasslands, savannas, dry shrub forests, swampy areas, and forest-edge habitats across its range, which includes Brazil, Paraguay, Bolivia, northern Argentina, and southeastern Peru. This animal stands out with its long legs, reddish-golden fur, and a prominent black mane. Despite its name, genetic studies indicate that it is neither a true wolf nor a fox, but rather the sole member of its genus, Chrysocyon. It is the largest canid in South America, typically standing about 90 centimeters (3 feet) tall at the shoulder.
The Maned Wolf’s Distinctive Diet
The maned wolf exhibits an omnivorous diet, which is uncommon among canids. Its food intake includes both plant matter and small animals, with plant material often comprising a significant portion of its diet, sometimes exceeding 50%. Studies show that plant items can make up 40% to 90% of its diet, and over 100 different plant species have been identified as food sources.
A staple of its diet is the “wolf apple” (Solanum lycocarpum), a tomato-like fruit also known as lobeira. This fruit is consumed year-round and can constitute a substantial percentage of the maned wolf’s diet, varying from 40% to 90%. Besides wolf apples, the maned wolf also eats other fruits like bananas and guavas, as well as roots, tubers, and sugarcane.
The animal portion of its diet consists primarily of small to medium-sized prey. Common prey items include rodents, rabbits, armadillos, and other small mammals. They also consume birds, bird eggs, reptiles, fish, gastropods, and various insects like termites and grasshoppers. While they generally do not hunt large animals, they may occasionally take a newborn lamb or pig, and have been observed to scavenge.
Foraging and Hunting Strategies
Maned wolves are primarily solitary animals, a characteristic that extends to their foraging and hunting behaviors. Unlike many other large canids that hunt in packs, the maned wolf typically hunts alone. Their activity is largely nocturnal or crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dusk and dawn. This activity pattern helps them avoid daytime heat and potential predators.
When hunting, the maned wolf employs a distinct method often described as “stotting” or “pronking,” where it leaps above tall grass to spot prey. They rotate their large ears to detect the faint sounds of small animals moving through the dense vegetation. Upon locating prey, they may tap the ground with a front foot to flush it out, then pounce to capture it. They may also dig for burrowing prey or leap to catch birds and insects. Their hunting success rate is not exceptionally high, with only about 21% of hunts ending in a meal. They are also opportunistic feeders, adapting their diet to what is seasonally available.
Unique Dietary Adaptations
The maned wolf possesses several physical adaptations that support its unique diet and habitat. Its most striking feature, the exceptionally long and slender legs, allows it to navigate and see above the tall grasses of its savanna and grassland environment. This elevated vantage point aids in spotting small prey and locating fruits.
Its dental structure reflects its omnivorous nature. The maned wolf’s teeth are less specialized for tearing large quantities of meat compared to other canids. Its upper carnassials (shearing teeth) are reduced, and its upper incisors are weak, while its canines are long and slender. The flatter molars are suited for grinding plant material, which is consistent with its high consumption of fruits and vegetation.
The digestive system of the maned wolf is generally similar to that of other canids, but it is adapted to process a diet rich in fiber from plant matter. The passage of food through its digestive tract can be relatively rapid. Its ability to digest carbohydrates and sugars is well-suited for its fruit-heavy diet. Furthermore, their keen senses of hearing and smell are well-developed, enabling them to effectively locate both small prey and ripe fruits within their dense habitat.