Last Updated on September 14, 2023 by Amin Tawar
Florida is known for its theme parks, national parks, shorelines, and a range of endemic species. The state has diverse habitats from coral reefs to the cypress swamps which support a wide range of fauna.
Though once present, wolves are currently not found anywhere in the state of Florida. There have been some sightings of animals that resembled wolves, but no confirmed sighting of wolves has been reported as of now.
Since humans set foot on Earth, we have been a reason for the extinction of various species.
Though the situation is improving these days due to intervention from various conservation groups, it is important that the extinction of red wolves in Florida acts as a reminder.
Below I’ve explained all the things you need to know about the wolves in Florida.
Do Any Wolves Live in Florida?
No, there are no wolves found living in the wild habitats of Florida.
Historically, Red wolves inhabited the mountains, lowlands, and wetlands of Florida, Texas, and Pennsylvania. These meat eaters prey on rabbits, raccoons, white-tailed deer, and rodents. Though Red wolves live in packs, they don’t hunt in packs like the Gray wolves.
Compared to Gray wolves, Red wolves are mid-sized members of the Canidae family. Unlike their name, these wolves are yellowish-brown with some black fur on their backs. These carnivores weigh anywhere from 44 pounds to 85 pounds with males weighing more than the females.
Red wolves do not pose a threat to human life and will always try to avoid an encounter with humans. However, red wolves pose a threat to livestock and as a result, were killed and also hunted as a sport.
By the early 1900s, all the red wolves in the wild had vanished or dispersed into nearby states which led to the listing of red wolves as extinct in the wild.
How Many Wolves Are Left In Florida?
Currently, there are no wolves left in Florida. After the extinction of red wolves in the state of Florida, a captive program was started by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, with an aim to capture remaining red wolves for breeding and reintroduction into the wild.
In 1987, the wolves were reintroduced at Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge in North Carolina, where the population rose to about 200 in 2011. However, due to a lack of regulation by U.S. Fish & Wildlife Services, the population dropped to 40 in 2018 with no new wild litter since 2018.
The wolf population further dropped to 8 in 2021 which sparked various criticism and protests from various conservationists and conservation groups. Under the extreme demand from environmentalists, U.S. Fish & Wildlife resumed the reintroduction program which led to the birth of the first litter in 2022. As of now (2023) there are 15 to 17 red wolves remaining in Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge.
On a side note, this hybridization between red wolves and coyotes decreases the number of genetically distinct individuals which threatens the already endangered red wolf population.
In addition to hybridizations, wolves have also lost their position in the ecosystem. As the wolves were extirpated, coyote replaced their position in the ecosystem. Safeguarding the wolves against these threats along with extensive regulation of their population is the need of the hour.
Also Check Our Guide On Wolves In US
Is The Florida Black Wolf Still Alive?
Florida black wolfs (Canis rufus floridanus) are a subspecies of red wolf and controversially believed to be a type of coyote due to their color. Though thriving in the 1800s, these social animals endemic to Florida were declared extinct in 1934.
The Europeans who came to settle in Florida and other parts of northern America had an extreme fear of wolves.
In European folklore, wolves were associated with the Devil. As a result, many bounties were placed on wolves. People’s fears along with the loss of livestock due to wolf predation, pushed the wolves into extinction.
Also Check Our Guide On Wolf In Colorado
Are There Wolves in Miami?
Miami is home to thriving marine life which includes turtles, corals, mangroves, and wildlife which includes white-tailed deer, Florida panther, and Florida black bear. However, there are no wolves currently found in Miami. Although, there are plans to reintroduce remaining red wolf hybrids into the city’s parks.
Can You Own a Wolf in Florida?
No. Like in most states of the U.S., you cannot own a wolf in Florida. Wolves are designated as endangered by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife and therefore illegal to be owned.
Though there isn’t any wolf population in Florida currently, as per law wolf population and ownership are regulated by Florida Fish & wildlife commission.
Unless the wolves are re-introduced into Florida and their population reaches the recovery goal the status of Wolf ownership in Florida is expected to remain the same.
Conclusion
And that was everything you need to know about the Wolf in Florida. I hope this article was informative and your queries were answered.
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