RED WOLF
The American red wolf (Canis rufus) is one of the two wolf species in North America. Red wolves weigh roughly 45-80 pounds and are approximately 4 feet long. Their diet comprises primarily white-tailed deer, small rodents such as rabbits, nutria; and have also been known to consume insects and berries.
The SSP is a captive breeding program that releases imperiled species to the wild to restore and protect their species. Red wolves became a part of this recovery effort in 1984. The red wolf was once common throughout Texas and Louisiana but was declared extinct in the 1980s.
Red wolves are classified as critically endangered species under the International Union for Conservation of Nature and listed as an "endangered species" under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. Approximately 17 individuals remain in the wild. They are a part of the Species Survival Plan which is managed by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
THREATS & CONSERVATION
Red wolves suffer hazards, particularly prior to their federal protection These major threats include habitat loss, illegal poaching, and vehicle strikes. Red wolves released to Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge in North Carolina are legally protected in that designated location and many zoos and wildlife/wolf conservation communities are taking part in supporting the conservation of the red wolf through the Species Survival Plan.
OUR WORK
Our institute is dedicated to safeguarding these essential animals. Extinction is very feasible and red wolf mortality has been increasing. Our team has launched a petition promoting the building of a wildlife crossing on North Carolina’s US Highway 64. Muppet, a famous red wolf that resided at Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge was recently struck and killed by an automobile. We urge you to sign the petition or contribute to the Red Wolf Wildlife Crossing Fund.
FACTS & PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION
