The most distinctive physical characteristic of the maned wolf is its long, flowing mane of black hair along the back of its neck and shoulders. This mane can be raised and lowered, making the maned wolf appear larger when it feels threatened or is in a confrontational situation. This feature is the reason for their common name, "maned" wolf.
Other key physical characteristics of the maned wolf include:
- Long, slender legs, which are adapted for walking and hunting in the grasslands and open areas of its habitat.
- A slender body covered in a reddish-brown coat, which helps them blend into the tall grasses of their environment.
- Large, erect ears, which aid in their acute hearing.
- A bushy, black-tipped tail, which adds to their overall striking appearance.
These features give the maned wolf a unique and graceful appearance, making it a visually distinctive species within the canid family.