Mammal

Maned Wolf

Chrysocyon brachyurus

Also known as Guará, Aguará Guazú, Lobo de Crin

Maned wolves traverse the vast South American grasslands on exceptionally long legs, visually resembling a fox on stilts with a dark, erectable neck mane. These solitary canids communicate across large territories using deep, booming vocalizations known as roar-barks, foraging primarily for wild fruit and small mammals. Pups are born with dark blackish fur, gradually acquiring the signature golden-red coat as they reach adulthood.

SolitaryOmnivorousCrepuscular

1 / 7

—observations

—countries

—peak records

Near ThreatenedConservation status

Key facts

Diet & preyLobeira Fruit, Small Rodents, Armadillos

Predators

Jaguar
Puma

ThreatsHabitat loss, road mortality, domestic dog diseases, human conflict

HabitatsCerrado, grasslands, savanna, open woodlands

Life span8–10 years in the wild; 12–15 years in captivity

Classification

OrderCarnivora
FamilyCanidae
GenusChrysocyon
SpeciesChrysocyon brachyurus

Range & activity

Range data is not available yet.

Safe observation

Interaction riskModerate

Low
Moderate
High
Very high

Why interaction risk is moderate: Generally shy and avoids humans; maintain a respectful distance to avoid causing stress or defensive bites.
What to notice: Recognized by long stilt-like black legs, a tall body, large ears, and a reddish-orange coat.
Support conservation: Keep a wide distance, stay on designated trails, and never use food bait or calls to lure them.

Responsible observation

Observing in the Wild: Look along edges of Cerrado grasslands at dawn or dusk when they actively forage.
Maintaining Distance: Use binoculars or a telephoto lens, as these timid canids flee from close human approach.
Drive Carefully: Slow down on roads passing through native habitat, as vehicle collisions are a major threat.

Help improve the field guideSomething wrong?

Report a name, category, or profile issue for review.

Checking your Fauna account…