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Japanese Wolf: Between Shinto Beliefs and Natural History

The Japanese Wolf (Canis lupus hodophilax) was a carnivorous canid once endemic to Japan. This wolf was one of the smallest subspecies of wolves, but it is now considered extinct.

Physical Description of the Dog

The Japanese Wolf was distinguished by its small size, measuring about 90 cm in length and weighing between 15 and 20 kg. Its fur was generally gray with brownish hues. It had a relatively large head and very short, rounded ears.

Classification

The Japanese Wolf belongs to the Canidae family.

Kingdom: Animalia (Animals)
Phylum: Chordata (Chordates)
Class: Mammalia (Mammals)
Order: Carnivora (Carnivores)
Family: Canidae (Canids)
Genus: Canis
Species: Canis lupus
Subspecies: Canis lupus hodophilax

This wolf was one of the smallest subspecies of wolves and was endemic to Japan.

Habitat

The Japanese Wolf lived in the mountains, dense forests, and plains of Japan, primarily on the islands of Honshū, Shikoku, and Kyūshū. Adapted to various terrains, it played a crucial role in the balance of local ecosystems.

Behavior and Social Life

Probably solitary or living in small packs, the Japanese Wolf was an opportunistic predator. It hunted deer, wild boars, and other medium-sized animals, but it could also feed on carcasses.

Conservation and Extinction

The causes of its extinction include intensive hunting, diseases such as rabies introduced by domestic dogs, and the loss of its natural habitat. The last Japanese Wolf is believed to have been killed in 1905 in Nara Prefecture.

Legend and Symbolism

The Japanese Wolf holds a special place in Japanese folklore, often perceived as a protector of travelers and crops. Its extinction has reinforced its status as a mythical figure.

Diet

The Japanese Wolf was an opportunistic carnivore, primarily feeding on deer, wild boars, and small mammals. It could also consume carrion and fruits when food was scarce.

Closest Genetic Cousins

The Japanese Wolf belongs to the genus Canis, which also includes the Gray Wolf (Canis lupus). These two species share common characteristics, notably their social structure in packs and their hunting habits. However, the Japanese Wolf was distinguished by its smaller size and specific adaptation to Japanese ecosystems.

The Gray Wolf is one of the most widespread species of wolves in the world. It is known for its great adaptability and ability to live in various environments, from forests to tundras. Its complex social behavior makes it an effective predator and a fascinating subject of study.
The African Wild Dog (Lycaon pictus), although belonging to a different branch of Canids, shares some ecological traits with wolves, such as cooperative hunting and an organized social structure.
The Coyote (Canis latrans), a close cousin of the Gray Wolf, is a smaller canid widespread in North America. It is known for its dietary opportunism and ability to adapt to anthropogenic environments.

These species demonstrate the diversity of the genus Canis, highlighting the varied adaptations that enable their survival in distinct environments around the world.

Tips for Observers

Although the Japanese Wolf is extinct, here are some tips for observing other species of wolves in their natural habitat:

Observe at dusk: Wolves are most active at sunrise and sunset.
Stay still: Keep your distance to avoid frightening the animals.
Favor quiet areas: Look for places known to be frequented by wolves.

By following these recommendations, you can admire these fascinating animals while minimizing disturbances.

The Japanese Wolf is an emblematic species of biodiversity loss due to human activity. Its preservation would have required harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife.