It is the largest of Old World grey wolves, averaging 39 kg (86 lb) in Europe;[6] however, exceptionally large individuals have weighed 69–79 kg (152–174 lb), though this varies according to region.[2][7] Its fur is relatively short and coarse,[4] and is generally of a tawny colour, with white on the throat that barely extends to the cheeks.[7] Melanists, albinos, and erythrists are rare, and mostly the result of wolf-dog hybridisation.[8] The howl of the Eurasian wolf is much more protracted and melodious than that of North American grey wolf subspecies, whose howls are louder and have a stronger emphasis on the first syllable.