With a wild population of fewer than 100 individuals residing along the coast of North Carolina, the red wolf (*Canis rufus*) ranks among the most endangered canids globally. A [Species Survival Plan (SSP)](http://www.aza.org/species-survival-plan-program/) captive breeding initiative was established for the recovery of this at-risk wolf. One of the facilities involved in this restoration effort is the [WNC Nature Center](http://www.wildwnc.org/) located in Asheville, North Carolina.
The WNC Nature Center houses seven endangered red wolves.
On April 28, 2023, Oak and Gloria, two three-year-old wolves, welcomed nine red wolf pups. These pups are expected to emerge from their den and begin exploring their enclosure shortly (they may already be outside), so when you plan a visit to [Asheville,](https://www.travel4wildlife.com/things-to-do-asheville-wildlife-adventures-mountains-north-carolina/) be sure to include the Nature Center to witness the red wolves!
The red wolf featured in the image is Mayo, a red wolf that was present at the Center during my time volunteering. In 2012, she gave birth to a litter of four pups (two females and two males). This not only brings happiness and joy to visitors of the WNC Nature Center but also significantly enhances the gene pool of this critically endangered species.
Spotting a red wolf in the wild is not merely challenging; it is almost impossible. Occasionally, a visitor might catch a glimpse of one in the [Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge](https://www.travel4wildlife.com/wildlife-tour-review-black-bear-tour-alligator-river/). Your best opportunity is to visit a zoo or nature center that participates in the red wolf captive breeding program. The [Red Wolf Coalition](https://redwolves.com/newsite/) provides a list of the 42 accredited facilities in the U.S. where red wolves can be observed.
*If you appreciated our Red Wolf Photo, you might also enjoy:*
**Cristina Garcia**
Zoologist and wildlife photographer. She has experience working in the field with jackals, wolves, cheetahs, and leopards. She is a member of the Board of Directors of [SEE Turtles](https://www.seeturtles.org), a non-profit organization dedicated to sea turtle conservation.
Check out her [posts at Travel For Wildlife](https://www.travel4wildlife.com/author/sadie7/) and explore more of her work at [Truly Wild](https://trulywild.com) and [Our Wild Yard](https://ourwildyard.com).