By Emma Swain
A breeding program to help preserve the survival of an endangered South American animal is under way in the Hunter Valley.
A trio of maned wolves was released from quarantine at Hunter Valley Zoo, Nulkaba, yesterday after arriving from Altina Wildlife Park, near Beaudesert.
Resembling a fox on stilts and native to central Brazil, the maned wolf species is almost lost in Australia.
“When we were offered the opportunity to take on three maned wolves we jumped at the chance because they certainly have that wow factor and they will provide that point of difference for us,” head zoo keeper Leanne Pearson said.
“The other strange thing about the maned wolf is that it isn’t a wolf at all and, despite its appearance, is not a fox either. In fact, its closest relative would have to be the bush dog,” Ms Pearson said.
It is hoped the new additions – Rocho and females Louana and Ninka – will begin breeding early next year.
“The breeding season is November to April so we’ll have to wait and see what happens but they are now here permanently so it’s exciting news.”