The maned wolf is a distinctive South American canid with specialized behavioral and dietary needs. Effective enrichment programs in zoos are essential to prevent boredom and support natural behavioral expression.
Maned wolf welfare in captivity requires enrichment that addresses their solitary, wide-ranging nature. Without appropriate enrichment, maned wolves commonly develop stereotypic pacing behaviors. Scent enrichment using prey animal scents, foraging opportunities with varied food types including fruit, and visual barriers that allow choice of resting locations significantly improve welfare. Their crepuscular activity pattern should be accommodated by exhibit and feeding schedules. Social housing requires careful compatibility assessment. Positive reinforcement training enables voluntary veterinary participation, reducing the stress of medical procedures.