![]() While they are a distinct species, their interactions with coyotes pose a serious risk of hybridization. Though the red wolf has come a long way, there are many threats to the species in the long term. Additionally, though no studies have conducted to quantify this, the wolves’ preference for nuisance species, like nutria and raccoons, helps to reduce damage to crops and other human activities. In turn the smaller prey populations are less likely to balloon out of control and consume all available nutrients in their habitat. Within their ecosystem, the wolves play a valuable role in keeping numbers of prey like deer in check. ![]() These wolves are the ancestors of the 75 to 100 animals that now live in North Carolina, the first animal to be successfully reintroduced after being declared extinct in the wild. As part of an ambitious captive-breeding program, the U.S Fish & Wildlife Service captured the 14 remaining red wolves they could find in the wild. Though red wolves once ranged across the southeastern United States, years of hunting and habitat loss had driven the species to the brink of extinction by 1970. Smaller and ruddier in color than their gray wolf cousins, the red wolf is one of the most endangered canids in the world. In the wild, red wolves typically live five to six years, and as long as 14 years in captivity. The adult pack members will range and return with food for the pups until they are strong enough. The dens themselves are well hidden near stream banks, downed logs, sand knolls, or even drain pipes and culverts. For several weeks after this period, the other members of the pack keep a close eye on the pups, keeping them within the den until they mature. After about 10 days, the pups' eyes open. Anywhere from one to nine pups are born roughly nine weeks later in April or May. Red wolves breed once a year, from January through March. ![]() Red wolves are fiercely territorial creatures and will even fight other wolves if needed. Within one to three years, the younger wolves will leave the pack in search of their own mates and territory.Įach pack has its own home range, which the wolves will hunt in and defend from other canids. Older offspring will help the breeding male and female raise their younger siblings, and will also attend the den. Usually red wolves form a group of five to eight, composed of the breeding male and female and their offspring from different years. Red wolves mate for life, and each pack is formed around the breeding pair. ![]()
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