The African wild dog (Lycaon pictus) is one of the continent's most endangered carnivores and among its most efficient hunters. A social pack animal with a mottled tan, black and white coat unique to each individual, it hunts cooperatively, favouring impala, across large ranges of the Kruger's bush and open plains.
Name
Wild Dog [Lycaon pictus]
Appearance
The Wild dog is a wild, carnivorous member of the canine family that stands about 750mm at the shoulders. Males are slightly bigger than the females, weighing around 25kg. They have a dusty yellow coat, that is covered in large black and white spots. Each wild dog has a different and unique coat pattern, making it easy to identify different members in the pack.
Diet
Wild Dogsā prey consists mostly of small and medium animals, but their favourite prey is Impala. In some places it has been recorded that packs have also hunted large prey like Wildebeest and Zebra. Wild Dogs hunt and collaborate in packs wearing down the prey until it stops, where they then proceed to tear the prey apart.
Breeding
Wild Dogs are seasonal breeders, with pups born mid winter after a gestation period of 70 days. Only the Alpha Pair may breed in a pack while the other members take turns with helping rear the pups. With up to 12 pups in a litter, the female cannot suckle them all for too long.
Behaviour
Pack sizes may vary from a young pair to up to 50 members. Wild Dogs are very social Animals and spend most of their time with other members. These animals are one of the most effective hunters that will take on large prey like Eland to small prey like hares.
Habitat
Wild Dogs can be found in moderately dense bush and open plains. Distribution of these animals are difficult to pinpoint as they are constantly moving to newer areas. A majority of them can be seen in the Kruger National Park, nearTshokwane, Skukuza and Phalaborwa.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do wild dogs hunt?
Wild dogs are among Africa's most successful predators, hunting as a coordinated pack rather than alone. They chase prey over long distances, taking turns to wear it down until it tires, then bring it down together. Impala are their favourite prey, though packs also take larger animals such as wildebeest, zebra and eland.
Where can you see wild dogs in the Kruger?
Wild dogs range very widely and constantly move to new areas, which makes them hard to pin down. In the Kruger many are seen around Tshokwane, Skukuza and Phalaborwa. Because they are so mobile and scarce, a wild dog sighting is one of the most exciting and unpredictable moments on a safari.
Are wild dogs endangered?
Yes, the African wild dog is one of the most endangered large carnivores on the continent, with only a limited number remaining. They need huge territories and are sensitive to disease and habitat loss, so protected areas like the Kruger are vital strongholds for the species' survival.
How is a wild dog pack organised?
Wild dogs are intensely social and live in packs ranging from a young pair to as many as 50 members. Only the dominant alpha pair breeds, producing up to about 12 pups after a 70-day gestation, while the rest of the pack helps feed and raise the litter, a truly cooperative family.
