Ecology and conservation of the maned wolf: introduction

Wolves are considered controversial figures worldwide: mythical creatures as well as troublemakers, their conservation can polarize extreme views and it often is riddled with conflicts. In recent years much effort has focussed on the discussion of how to conserve large carnivores, such as wolves, while addressing public concerns. The maned wolf, however, has mostly eluded the discussion stage. With its solitary habits and unusual fruit-eating diet, the endangered maned wolf roams the grasslands of South America, playing a vital part in maintaining the integrity of this biodiversity hotspot. Compared to other large canid species, little is known about this unique species and the peculiarities of its relationship with local people and the environment, and the reasons for its decline, making research about the species an urgent concern.
Considering the maned wolf’s uniqueness, issues discussed in this book are also relevant to the conservation of other large carnivores. The elements that contribute to the construction of the relationships and also to the potential conflict between people and wild animals, and particularly carnivores, are very similar worldwide. The ecological role of the maned wolf as a large predator is also similar to that of other predator species: like many large carnivores maned wolves are keystone species, and also potential umbrella and flagship species for the conservation of their habitat. Like other carnivores, they have progressively strived to survive in human occupied environments, as their natural habitat is encroached by farms. Endangered species of carnivores face similar problems linking their decline with the value that people place on resources and human activities; protected areas are insufficient to guarantee their survival, and the importance of including local land owners in conservation becomes more evident. These common issues are discussed along the following chapters as researchers and practitioners from different fields disclose the maned wolf’s compelling story.