What do red wolves look like?
It can be easy to make assumptions about what a red wolf may look like due to their name, however these assumptions can lead to mistakes that can ultimately harm the species. Many of the problems facing red wolves today could be solved at least in part if the public was aware of the differences between red wolves and similar animals such as coyotes. In order for people to help rather than hinder the preservation of Canis rufus, it is important that they know how to identify a red wolf.
Wolf Header Photo: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Wolf Header Photo: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
DID YOU KNOW:
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Due to their name, many people assume that red wolves are completely red in color. In reality, however, red wolves can have a variety of colors in their pelage, including red, brown, black, grey, and even white.
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How big is a red wolf?
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According to the Red Wolf Coalition, red wolves are usually around 4-5 feet long from the nose to the base of the tail, and about two feet tall at the shoulder. These wolves usually weigh anywhere from 50-80 pounds (a mass of approximately 22-36 kilograms) when they reach adult size. Image source: Becky Bartel Harrison (USFWS) / Edited by Mitch R. |
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How are red wolves shaped?
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Red wolves have thin, long legs, large ears that are pointy and wide, and large feet, as described by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Image source: United States Fish and Wildlife Service |
What color(s) are red wolves?
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Red wolf coloration around the back, sides, and head can consist of a mix of tannish brown, light grey, black, and rusty red. Around the chest and legs coloration becomes a mix of tan and creamy white. Image source: United States Fish and Wildlife Service |
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What are the differences between a red wolf and a coyote?
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Red wolves are on average slightly larger and a bit heavier than coyotes, however, their similarities make it hard to judge by size alone. Red wolves have wider and shorter muzzles than coyotes, and their eyes are slightly more rounded. Image source: Combined; edited by Mitch R. |
Information sourced from the Red Wolf Coalition and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
