The Mexican gray wolf is a subspecies of the gray wolf, native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is the smallest of the gray wolves, typically weighing between 50 to 85 pounds. These wolves have a distinctive coat that varies in color, often featuring shades of gray, brown, and cream. Once nearly extinct, the Mexican gray wolf has been the focus of conservation efforts since the 1990s. Today, they are protected under the Endangered Species Act and are being reintroduced into their natural habitats. Their role in the ecosystem is vital, as they help control prey populations and maintain ecological balance.