Wildlife HQ staff are howling with delight after the births of three maned wolf pups at the zoo.
Zookeeper Sue Tonga said it was a key moment at the facility: maned volves are listed as near threatened on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List.
“Wildlife HQ is thrilled to announce the births of three beautiful maned wolf pups, to proud parents Eartha and Eberardo,” she said.
Eartha, 7, has been at the zoo for six years, while Eberardo, 2, recently joined the zoo from Altina Wildlife Park in central NSW.
Wildlife HQ animal collections manager Nikki Mikula was particularly excited as Eartha is her favorite animal.
“Eartha has been an amazing doting mum, attentively caring for her new pups and ensuring they thrive in their early days,” she said.
“We are incredibly proud of her and excited to watch the pups grow under her nurturing care.”
Despite their name, maned wolves are not true wolves. They belong to their own unique genus, Chrysocyon, meaning ‘golden dog’.
Ms Tonga said staff at the zoo were determined to help the creatures survive and thrive.
“Maned wolves are listed as near threatened due to habitat loss, fragmentation and road mortality,” she said.
“As part of the Australasian breeding program, our mission is to contribute to the conservation of this unique and rare species, ensuring their survival for generations to come.”
Ms Tonga said the animals were unique.
“Known for their striking appearance, maned wolves have long legs that help them navigate the tall grasses of their native habitats in South America,” she said.
“Their distinctive mane of fur along their neck and back can be raised to make them appear larger when threatened.
“Maned wolves are known for their unique ‘roar-bark’, a sound used to communicate with other wolves across their large territories.
“Unlike many other canines, maned wolves are omnivorous, with a diet consisting of a mix of fruits, vegetables and small animals.”
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