With a wild population of fewer than 100 individuals residing along the North Carolina coast, the red wolf (Canis rufus) ranks among the most endangered canids globally. A Species Survival Plan (SSP) captive breeding initiative was developed for the rehabilitation of this endangered wolf. One of the institutions participating in this recovery effort is the WNC Nature Center in Asheville, North Carolina.
The WNC Nature Center houses seven endangered red wolves.
On April 28, 2023, nine red wolf pups were born to Oak and Gloria, two three-year-old wolves. The pups are expected to emerge from their den and begin exploring their enclosure soon (they may already be out), so whenever you find yourself in Asheville, ensure to include the Nature Center in your plans to see the red wolves!
The red wolf pictured is Mayo, a red wolf that was 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 delight and happiness to visitors of the WNC Nature Center but these pups significantly enhance the gene pool of this critically endangered species.
Spotting a red wolf in the wild is not only challenging; it is virtually impossible. Very occasionally, a visitor may catch sight of one in the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. Your best opportunity lies in visiting a zoo or nature center that is part of the red wolf captive breeding program. The Red Wolf Coalition maintains a list of 42 approved facilities in the U.S. where red wolves can be seen.
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Cristina Garcia
Zoologist and wildlife photographer. She has worked in the field alongside jackals, wolves, cheetahs, and leopards. She serves on the Board of Directors of SEE Turtles, a non-profit sea turtle conservation organization.
Read her articles at Travel For Wildlife and view more of her work at Truly Wild, and Our Wild Yard.