Maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus)

The maned wolf is the largest canid of South America. Its markings resemble those of foxes, but it is not a fox, nor is it a wolf, as it is not closely related to other canids. It is the only species in the genus Chrysocyon (meaning “golden dog”). This mammal is found in open and semi-open habitats, especially grasslands with scattered bushes and trees, in south, central-west, and southeastern Brazil, Paraguay, northern Argentina, Bolivia east and north of the Andes, and far southeastern Peru. IUCN lists it as near threatened, while it is considered vulnerable by the Brazilian government. The average adult weighs 23 kg and stands 90 cm tall at the shoulder, has a head-body length of 100 cm  with the tail adding another 45 cm. The maned wolf also is known for the distinctive odor of its territory markings, which has earned it the nickname “skunk wolf.” The maned wolf does not form packs. It hunts alone, usually between sundown and midnight. It kills its prey by biting on the neck or back, and shaking the prey violently if necessary. Monogamous pairs may defend a shared territory of approximately 30 km2, although outside of mating, the individuals may meet seldom. The maned wolf is omnivorous. It specializes in small and medium-sized prey, including small mammals, birds, and even fish, but a large portion of its diet (more than 50%, according to some studies) is vegetable matter, including sugarcane, tubers, and fruit.

photo credits: wiki, Sean Crane, graywolfconservation, Sage Ross