Getting to Know Canids by Marilyn McGee and Alan Lacy Throughout this year we will be discovering some fascinating information about North American wolves. In each issue, we will explore three unique subjects that relate to wolves in a fun and engaging way! Our first three will focus specifically on canids, what types of canids we have here in North America, and how you can tell them apart! So sit down and let’s get our learning on! Canids: What Are They? The easiest way to answer this question is to look in your own household or backyard. Man’s best friend just happens to be a member of this family. Did you guess “a dog?” If so, you’re exactly right. In addition to the domestic dog, there are four wild animals that also belong to this species group. They are the wolf, fox, jackal, and coyote. Simply put, a canid is a mammal belonging to the dog family. Here are some interesting facts about each of these members: Wolf: Scientific name: Canis lupus (gray wolf), Canis rufus (red wolf), Canis lupus baileyi (Mexican wolf) Wolves are the largest members of the canid family living in some areas in North America, Europe, and Africa. They are carnivores and can kill large prey such as elk and deer. The average gray wolf weighs about 70-100 pounds. Dog: Scientific name: Canis lupus familiaris According to Oxford researchers Joelene Hughes and David Macdonald, there are more than 700 million dogs living in the world today. Dogs serve humans in a variety of ways. They are our loving companions, and are used as work dogs, hunting dogs and guardians of animals. They even serve in the medical profession.
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SL - WINTER 2016