![]() ![]() Unlike most Canid species, wild dogs are not territorial animals. In a study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B, researchers found that wild dogs sneeze to vote on hunting and group decisions. They are Africa’s most effective predators – 80% of their hunts end successfully, compared to, say lions at 30%. African Wild Dogs are pure poetry in motion when on a hunt. The same goes for hunting, with up to 20 working together to bring down their prey. Living in packs, African wild dogs are extremely social and known the help the pack when weak or ill. Funnily though, the painted wolves are often confused for hyenas. Moreover, their phylogeny (evolutionary development) to behavior, makes them ‘wolves’. Since the wild dog belongs to the Lycaon genus, they are more closely related to wolves than dogs. The Latin name, Lycaon pictus, means “painted wolf” – a direct reference to its mottled caramel and brown fur. The African wild dog is a fierce predator found in the grasslands to dense forests and deserts of sub-Saharan Africa. COMMON NAMES: Cape Hunting Dog, African Hunting Dog, Hunting Dog, Wild Dog, Hyena Dog, Painted Dog, Painted Hunting Dog, Painted Wolf, Ornate Wolf.Read on – it’s fascinating! Fast Facts: African Wild Dog Here are some insights into African Wild Dogs including what makes them a unique species. Numbers have radically declined due to habitat loss, poaching, and threats from other predators. ![]() With around 5000 or so adults left in the wild, sightings are rare. ![]() Once found across the African continent, the wild dog is endangered. The musky colors, large bat-like ears, and bushy tail are a thing and, their camaraderie and social nature, a joy to watch. They are not the ‘Big Five of Africa’ but African wild dogs are awe-inspiring sights of an African Safari. ![]()
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