A small subspecies of gray wolf — among the most genetically distinct gray wolves. Extinct in the wild by 1980; brought back via captive breeding.

Also called: El Lobo, Lobo Mexicano

Native status: Native; federally endangered

§ Quick facts

SizeBody 1.2–1.4 m (4–4.5 ft); shoulder height 65–80 cm
WeightMales 27–40 kg (60–90 lb); females 22–32 kg — smallest gray wolf subspecies
LifespanWild 6–8 years; captive 15+
OrderCarnivora
FamilyCanidae

§ Encyclopedia

The Mexican wolf, also known as the lobo mexicano is a subspecies of gray wolf native to eastern and southeastern Arizona and western and southern New Mexico and fragmented areas of northern Mexico. Historically, the subspecies ranged from Southern California south into Baja California, east through the Sonora and Chihuahua Deserts and into West Texas.

Source: Wikipedia — Mexican wolf Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Small gray wolf with buff, gray, and rust mottling; relatively short ears; long legs.

Similar species. Coyote (much smaller, narrow muzzle). Other gray wolf subspecies (larger, different colors).

Voice. Howls, whines, barks similar to other gray wolves but generally higher-pitched.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Elk, mule deer, smaller mammals, livestock (a source of conflict).

Behavior. El Lobo — the smallest, most genetically distinct gray wolf subspecies. Extinct in the wild by 1980; brought back from just seven founders in a captive-breeding program. As of 2024, the wild population in Arizona/New Mexico exceeds 240 individuals — the result of one of the most intensive carnivore recovery efforts in US history. Genetic management is critical due to the small founder population.

§ Range

Southwest US, northern Mexico

§ Habitat

Mountain forests, oak-juniper woodlands

§ Threats

Habitat fragmentation, illegal killing, lack of public acceptance.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the mexican wolf is currently classified as Endangered.

§ What helps

Support Mexican wolf recovery. Donate to Defenders of Wildlife or USFWS.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • USFWS Mexican Wolf Recovery
  • Mexican Wolf Interagency Field Team
  • Defenders of Wildlife
  • IUCN Red List 2018