A medium-sized canid endemic to the western regions of South America, primarily inhabiting diverse landscapes from Ecuador to Tierra del Fuego across Argentina and Chile.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Adaptable species found in varied ecosystems including Andean highlands, mountain forests, grasslands, shrublands, and semi-arid regions at elevations ranging from sea level to 4,000 meters
Ecological Role
Critical mesopredator in Andean ecosystems, controlling rodent populations and serving as prey for larger predators, contributing to ecological balance and food web dynamics
Morphology
SKIN COATDense fur varying from grayish-red to reddish-brown, with lighter ventral surfaces and darker dorsal coloration
LIMBS WINGSPowerful limbs adapted for running and traversing diverse terrains, digitigrade locomotion
HEAD SENSORYTriangular ears, acute auditory capabilities, pronounced snout with sensitive olfactory receptors
BODY STRUCTURERobust canine body, approximately 55-90 cm long, with a tail length of 30-40 cm, weighing 8-13 kg
