Distinguishing characteristics of the hairs of wild and domestic canids from Alberta

Abstract

Dorsal, ventral, and lateral guard hairs were examined from 12 wolves (Canis lupus), 14 coyotes (Canis latrans), six domestic dogs (Canis familiaris), and six red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) to determine distinguishing features. Wolf and coyote hairs are not separable using present techniques. However, wolf–coyote hair can be identified by its total length, band number and size, and distinctive basal cuticle scale pattern. Red fox hair is characteristic in its length, color, tip region size, basal cuticle scale pattern, and medulla cross section. Domestic dog hair is identified by its length and basal cuticle scale pattern. Several macroscopic and microscopic hair characteristics of Alberta canids are different from those of eastern canids.