African wild dog

Article about the African wild dog

The African wild dog (Lycaon pictus), also known as the painted wolf or Cape hunting dog, is a canid native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is the largest indigenous canid in Africa and is known for its unique coat patterns and highly social behavior.

Description

The African wild dog is a medium-sized canid with a lean, muscular build. Adults typically weigh between 18 to 36 kg (40 to 79 lb) and stand about 60 to 75 cm (24 to 30 in) at the shoulder. Their fur is short and sparse, with a distinctive mottled pattern of black, brown, white, and yellow patches. Each individual has a unique coat pattern, which helps pack members recognize each other.

Behavior

African wild dogs are highly social animals, living in packs that can range from 2 to 27 individuals. Packs are usually dominated by a monogamous breeding pair, and all members cooperate in caring for the young. They are known for their cooperative hunting strategies, which involve complex coordination and communication.

Habitat

African wild dogs inhabit a variety of environments, including savannas, grasslands, and open woodlands. They require large territories to support their hunting lifestyle, often ranging over areas of 400 to 1,500 square kilometers.

Diet

The diet of the African wild dog consists primarily of medium-sized ungulates, such as impalas, gazelles, and wildebeests. They are opportunistic hunters and will also prey on smaller animals and scavenge when necessary.

Reproduction

Breeding typically occurs once a year, with a gestation period of about 70 days. Litters can range from 2 to 20 pups, though the average is around 10. Pups are born in a den and are cared for by the entire pack.

Conservation status

The African wild dog is classified as Endangered by the IUCN. Major threats include habitat fragmentation, human-wildlife conflict, and diseases such as rabies and canine distemper.

Gallery

• 

  African wild dog

• 

  African wild dog

Related pages

• Canidae
• Carnivora
• Endangered species