The Dog Family: Family Canidae

There are 35 species of canids, including the fox, wolf, coyote and jackal. They are medium-sized carnivores adapted to swift running in relatively open terrains. They are extremely adaptable and range from solitary hunters to members of highly integrated packs. They are long-legged and digitigrade with claws that are blunt, straight, and non-crushing. The teeth are unspecialized with large canines and cheek teeth adapted for crushing. The carnassials, the last upper premolar and first lower molar teeth, are adapted for cutting. The face is long. Diet is mainly carnivorous but some species eat significant amounts of plant material. There are 13 genera. They are distributed worldwide except for Madagascar and some islands. They have been introduced to South America and Australasia where some are now feral.

• Coyote

• Fox

• Wolf