(Source: endangeredwolfcenter.org) Maned wolves are more closely related to the forest fox and the bush dog (canid species from South America) than to the wolves. The maned wolf's fox-like characteristics – such as a shaggy, white tipped tail and large ears – have earned it the nickname of "fox on stilts." The maned wolf is a South American native whose range extends from the Amazon basin rain forest in Brazil to the dry shrub forests of Paraguay and northern Argentina. Did you ever visit any of the areas where this animal lives?

Have you ever seen one of them in their natural habitat or a zoo?

Maned wolves have chestnut red pelage over rather large bodies, and black pelage on their long, slender legs, feet and muzzle. They have long red fur covering necks, backs, and chests which they can stand on end to give the appearance of a mane. The maned wolf also differs from true North American wolves in diet and temperament. These gentle and very timid wolves are solitary by nature. Only during the breeding season would you generally see more than one at a time. The maned wolf is omnivorous, eating a combination of fruits, vegetables and meat. It often preys on small birds, rodents and frogs, and favors fruits such as bananas, apples and avocados. Did you know these canines also eat fruits before this survey?