Essential and endangered. Every Red Wolf is worth saving. https://nywolf.org/ | Wolf Conservation Center

As one of the world’s most endangered mammals, the Red Wolf's story is one of survival, struggle, and hope. Here’s what you should know: 🟥 Fewer than 20 red wolves remain in the wild, most living in eastern North Carolina. 🟥 Once common across the Southeast, they were declared extinct in the wild by 1980. 🟥 A groundbreaking reintroduction program began in 1987 — the first of its kind in the U.S. 🟥 Released wolves wear bright orange collars to help prevent mistaken identity with coyotes. 🟥 R

38 years ago, a historic moment echoed across eastern North Carolina when Red Wolf howls returned to the wild. In 1987, eight captive-born Red Wolves were released into Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge, sparking hope for recovery and restoring balance to the landscape. Since then, more have followed, including Red Wolf Deven, released from the WCC in 2021. This #RedWolfWeek, we honor those past milestones while looking ahead with determination to more releases, stronger protections, and