The African wild dog
The African wild dog, also known as the painted wolf or painted dog due to its striking coat pattern, is a highly social and endangered carnivore native to sub-Saharan Africa. The African wild dog distribution by country:
- Botswana: African wild dogs can be found in various parts of Botswana, particularly in areas such as the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, and Moremi Game Reserve.
- South Africa: They inhabit certain regions of South Africa, including Kruger National Park, Madikwe Game Reserve, and Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park.
- Namibia: African wild dogs are present in Namibia, particularly in regions like Etosha National Park, the Waterberg Plateau Park, and the Caprivi Strip.
- Zimbabwe: They can be found in Zimbabwe, especially in protected areas like Hwange National Park, Mana Pools National Park, and Gonarezhou National Park.
- Zambia: African wild dogs inhabit certain parts of Zambia, including South Luangwa National Park, Kafue National Park, and Lower Zambezi National Park.
- Tanzania: They are found in Tanzania, particularly in wildlife reserves such as Selous Game Reserve, Ruaha National Park, and Serengeti National Park.
- Kenya: African wild dogs are present in Kenya, although they are less common compared to other predators. They can be found in areas such as Maasai Mara National Reserve and Laikipia Plateau.
- Mozambique: They inhabit parts of Mozambique, especially in wildlife reserves like Gorongosa National Park and Niassa National Reserve.
- Angola: While less studied, African wild dogs are believed to be present in Angola, particularly in savanna and woodland habitats.
- Other Countries: They may also be found in other countries in sub-Saharan Africa, including parts of Malawi, Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
African wild dogs are known for their cooperative hunting behavior, where they work together in packs to pursue and bring down prey. Despite their fascinating social structure and hunting prowess, African wild dogs face numerous threats including habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and diseases like canine distemper and rabies. Conservation efforts are underway to protect and preserve these unique predators across their range.