Argentinean Warrah
Dusicyon avus
Conservation Status
ExtinctMammalia · Carnivora · Canidae
About
Dusicyon avus is an extinct species of canid native to South America during the Pleistocene and Holocene epochs. It was medium to large, about the size of a German shepherd. It was closely related to the Falkland Islands wolf (Dusicyon australis), which descended from a population of D. avus. It appears to have survived until very recently, perhaps 400 years ago.
Fun Fact
Around 1900, the indigenous Selkʼnam people were recorded as recognizing two varieties of foxes, one of which grew to unusual size.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Found in the Luján Formation of Argentina, the Chui Formation of Brazil, the Milodón Cave in Chile and the Sopas Formation of Uruguay.
Diet
Preying on small mammals but also scavenging on large carcasses.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Destruction
- Overexploitation