LITTLE ROCK (February 12, 2026)— We’re excited to welcome a new resident to the Little Rock Zoo—meet Cinza, a four-year-old male maned wolf who recently joined us from the Audubon Zoo in New Orleans!
Cinza arrived as part of a breeding recommendation through the Species Survival Plan (SSP), a cooperative conservation program that helps ensure healthy, sustainable populations of animals in human care. Since his arrival, he’s been settling into his new habitat and getting to know Jordan, our female maned wolf.
Since their introductions at the end of January, keepers have enjoyed watching Cinza explore his surroundings, investigate new sights and scents, and stick close to Jordan as he learns the layout of his new home. Every introduction is a process, and so far, Cinza is doing a great job adjusting.
About Maned Wolves
Native to South America, maned wolves are one of the most visually striking canids you’ll ever see. They’re known for their long, slender legs, reddish-brown coat, and the distinctive black mane that runs down their neck and back—giving them a look that’s part wolf, part fox, and entirely unique.
Despite their name, maned wolves aren’t true wolves. In fact, they’re the only species in the genus Chrysocyon and are more closely related to foxes than to wolves or dogs.
Maned wolves are the largest canid in South America and are typically found in grasslands, savannas, and shrublands. Their long legs help them see over tall grasses as they search for food. Unlike many carnivores, maned wolves are omnivores, dining on small mammals, birds, reptiles—and even fruits and vegetables. One favorite food in the wild is the “wolf apple,” a fruit native to their range.
And one fun (and memorable) fact: maned wolves have a very strong-smelling urine, often compared to that of a skunk. It’s an important part of how they communicate and mark territory—though it definitely keeps keepers on their toes!
Come See Cinza
We’re thrilled to have Cinza as part of our animal family and look forward to watching his story unfold here at the Little Rock Zoo. Be sure to stop by the maned wolf habitat during your next visit to catch a glimpse of Cinza and Jordan as they get to know each other—and learn more about this fascinating and often misunderstood species.
