The Red Wolf (Canis rufus) is a critically endangered species native to the southeastern United States. It is smaller than the Gray Wolf and has a reddish-brown coat, long legs, and a slender build. Red wolves primarily hunt small to medium-sized mammals and are known for their unique vocalizations, which include howls and yips.
Once widespread, the Red Wolf population drastically declined due to habitat loss, hunting, and interbreeding with Coyotes. Conservation efforts, including breeding programs and reintroduction into the wild, aim to restore their numbers. Today, they are primarily found in North Carolina, where ongoing efforts continue to protect this species.