canid

The canids are a family of carnivoran mammals, Canidae, within the order Carnivora. They include dogs, wolves, foxes, coyotes, jackals, and related species. They are found across most of the world except Antarctica, with a wide range of habitats from deserts to arctic tundra.

They are typically medium to large, with elongated snouts, strong jaws, and non-retractable claws. Their dentition is adapted for meat consumption, with carnassial teeth for shearing and edged canines for grasping prey. Size and coloration vary by species, from small foxes to large wolves.

The family comprises several subfamilies and many genera, including Canis (gray wolves, domestic dogs, coyotes, jackals), Vulpes (true foxes), Lycaon (African wild dog), Cuon (dhole), Nyctereutes (raccoon dog), and Urocyon (gray and island fox). Canids evolved in North America during the late Eocene to early Oligocene and later dispersed globally. The domestic dog is a subspecies of Canis lupus, domesticated from gray wolves.

Most canids are social, especially wolves, dingoes, and jackals, living in packs or family groups. Foxes are often solitary or pair-living. Diet varies from large ungulates to small mammals and fruit; many are opportunistic omnivores. They rely on scent marking and vocalizations for territory and communication.

Conservation status varies by species. Habitat loss, hunting, and disease threaten several canids, while others are common or of least concern. Canids play important ecological roles as predators and scavengers, and humans have domesticated the domestic dog for companionship, work, and security.