With a wild population of fewer than 100 individuals residing along the coast of North Carolina, the red wolf (*Canis rufus*) stands as one of the most critically endangered canids worldwide. A [Species Survival Plan (SSP)](http://www.aza.org/species-survival-plan-program/) breeding program was established for the conservation of this threatened wolf. One of the facilities involved in this conservation initiative 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, nine red wolf pups were delivered by Oak and Gloria, two three-year-old wolves. The pups are expected to emerge from their den and begin to explore their enclosure shortly (they may already be out), so whenever you find yourself in [Asheville,](https://www.travel4wildlife.com/things-to-do-asheville-wildlife-adventures-mountains-north-carolina/) be sure to visit the Nature Center to see the red wolves!
The red wolf depicted in the photo is Mayo, a red wolf that was at the Center during my time as a volunteer. In 2012, she birthed a litter of four puppies (two females and two males). This not only brings delight and happiness to visitors of the WNC Nature Center but these puppies also significantly enhance the gene pool of this critically endangered species.
Encountering a red wolf in its natural habitat is not merely challenging; it is almost impossible. Very seldom does a visitor get to see one in the [Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge](https://www.travel4wildlife.com/wildlife-tour-review-black-bear-tour-alligator-river/). Your optimal opportunity is to visit a zoo or nature center that is part of the red wolf captive breeding program. The [Red Wolf Coalition](https://redwolves.com/newsite/) maintains a list of the 42 approved facilities across 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 worked 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 dedicated to sea turtle conservation.
Explore her [posts at Travel For Wildlife](https://www.travel4wildlife.com/author/sadie7/) and discover more of her work at [Truly Wild](https://trulywild.com), and [Our Wild Yard](https://ourwildyard.com).