Book XII, Chapter XVI

About the wolves of the Mainland.

Translated by Kendal Simmons ‘23

I have seen wolves in the governorates of Castilla del Oro and Nicaragua that are reddish in color, mean-spirited, and sometimes feed on Indians. They are found in many parts of the Mainland, especially along the interior banks of the Río de la Plata. They are very large (even larger than the Spanish Bulldogs). The wolves have cow-like fur and dog-like teeth, and are well-armed with canines. They prowl at night, howling in such a way that instills terror in those who are not accustomed to hearing their cries.

Image: Oil painting called The Wolf and the Lamb by Jean-Baptiste Oudry from the 18th century.