The Eastern American Wolf (Canis lycaon) is an enigmatic canid whose taxonomic status is the subject of intense scientific debate. Present in the forests of eastern North America, this species could either be a distinct lineage of wolves or the result of ancient hybridization between gray wolves and coyotes.
The Eastern Wolf has an intermediate morphology between the gray wolf and the coyote. It typically measures between 60 and 80 cm at the withers and weighs 20 to 35 kg. Its coat varies from gray to reddish, often with lighter shades on the belly and throat. Its ears are proportionally larger than those of the gray wolf, a trait it shares with the coyote.
The classification of the Eastern Wolf is controversial:
Some researchers consider it a subspecies of the red wolf (Canis rufus), while others see it as a distinct species or a natural hybrid.
The Eastern Wolf primarily inhabits the mixed forests of southeastern Canada (Ontario, Quebec) and the northeastern United States. It is notably found in Algonquin Provincial Park in Ontario, which hosts the most studied population. Its preferred habitat includes dense forest areas with access to clearings for hunting.
Unlike the gray wolf, which forms large packs, the Eastern Wolf generally lives in small family groups of 3 to 6 individuals. Like all wolves, it is an intelligent predator that hunts cooperatively. It establishes territories of 100 to 300 km² depending on prey availability.
Its diet mainly consists of:
This specialization in deer distinguishes it from the more generalist coyote.
The Eastern Wolf is considered a species of concern in Canada and protected in several U.S. states. The main threats are:
The question of whether the Eastern Wolf is a distinct species (Canis lycaon) or a wolf-coyote hybrid divides the scientific community:
If you wish to observe this discreet canid:
