Maned wolves are distinctive South American canids with specialized dietary needs and solitary social structure. Their welfare in zoos requires careful attention to diet, space, and their unique behavioral repertoire.
Maned wolf welfare in captivity requires careful dietary management. Their unusual omnivory means they need a diverse diet including fruit — about 50% of their intake. The high protein diets typical of canid facilities cause cystinuria and bladder stones, a major health concern in captive populations. Fruits including the wolf apple and supplemental vegetables must be incorporated into feeding programs. Their solitary nature means pair housing is generally inappropriate outside breeding periods. Large, enriched enclosures with varied terrain, foraging opportunities, and privacy allow expression of their secretive, wide-ranging natural behavior. Zoo populations contribute to genetic management and Cerrado conservation advocacy.