Canis rufus

Canis rufus, commonly known as the red wolf, is a critically endangered species native to the southeastern United States. It is a medium-sized canid, closely related to the gray wolf and coyote, with reddish-tan fur, a slender build, and bushy tail. Red wolves play an important role in their ecosystems by helping control prey populations. Historically widespread, habitat loss and hybridization with coyotes severely reduced their numbers, leading to conservation efforts. Today, they are primarily found in protected areas and captive breeding programs aimed at restoring their populations and ensuring the species’ survival.