Chrysocyon brachyurus, commonly known as the maned wolf, is native to the grasslands and scrub forests of South America. It is characterized by its long legs, reddish-brown fur, and distinctive black mane. Unlike true wolves, it hunts alone, primarily at night, and has a varied diet including fruits and small animals.

Chrysocyon brachyurus, commonly known as the maned wolf, is native to South America. Its geographical distribution includes Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru. The species is particularly prevalent in the cerrado region of central Brazil.

The maned wolf typically inhabits open and semi-open habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and scrub forests. The cerrado, where the species is most commonly found, is characterized by a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, featuring a mix of woody and grassy vegetation.

The maned wolf occupies an ecological niche as a solitary omnivore, feeding on a variety of food sources, including small mammals, birds, fruits, and vegetation. It plays a role in seed dispersal and maintaining the balance of its ecosystem by controlling prey populations.