With a feral population of fewer than 100 individuals residing along the coast of North Carolina, the red wolf (*Canis rufus*) is among the most threatened canids globally. A [Species Survival Plan (SSP)](http://www.aza.org/species-survival-plan-program/) breeding initiative was developed to aid in the recovery of this endangered wolf. One of the institutions involved in this recovery effort is the [WNC Nature Center](http://www.wildwnc.org/) located in Asheville, North Carolina.
The WNC Nature Center hosts seven endangered red wolves.
On April 28, 2023, nine red wolf pups were welcomed into the world by Oak and Gloria, two three-year-old wolves. The pups are expected to emerge from their den and start exploring their habitat soon (they may already be out), so whenever you visit [Asheville,](https://www.travel4wildlife.com/things-to-do-asheville-wildlife-adventures-mountains-north-carolina/) be sure to include the Nature Center to view 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 four puppies (two males and two females). This not only brings happiness and delight to visitors of the WNC Nature Center but also significantly contributes to the genetic diversity of this critically endangered species.
Encountering a red wolf in its natural habitat is not just challenging; it is virtually impossible. Rarely, a visitor might spot 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 is part of the red wolf captive breeding initiative. The [Red Wolf Coalition](https://redwolves.com/newsite/) provides a list of the 42 sanctioned facilities in the U.S. where red wolves can be observed.
*If you liked our Red Wolf Photo, you may also appreciate:*
**Cristina Garcia**
Zoologist and wildlife photographer. She has worked in the field with jackals, wolves, cheetahs, & leopards. She serves on the Board of Directors of [SEE Turtles](https://www.seeturtles.org), a non-profit organization dedicated to sea turtle conservation.
Read her [posts at Travel For Wildlife](https://www.travel4wildlife.com/author/sadie7/) and explore more of her work at [Truly Wild](https://trulywild.com), & [Our Wild Yard](https://ourwildyard.com).