Meet the African Wild Dog: A species once found all over Africa now listed by the IUCN as endangered as only 1,500 adults remain in the wild.
Also known as Cape hunting dogs, African wild dogs are an essential species to Africa’s wildlife — and a species worth saving.
Wild Facts:
- African wild dogs are highly social creatures, living in packs and working together during their hunts. They also partake in play, will sacrifice their own share of food to ensure pups get something to eat, and are one of the few mammals to care for members of the pack that are old, sick or disabled.
- They’re members of the Canidae family, but not related to wolves nor dogs. Some studies have linked them to dholes and bush dogs.
Threats to the African Wild Dog
Once found all over Africa, African wild dogs are now only found in sub-Saharan regions (Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Zambia, Tanzania, and Mozambique). Habitat loss, viral disease, and revenge killings by humans due to killed livestock are all major threats to the survival of wild dogs.
Fewer than 7,000 African wild dogs remain in the wild.
Why They Matter
African wild dogs play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of their habitats. These highly social and cooperative hunters, help control the populations of prey species; preventing overgrazing and promoting overall ecosystem health.
Additionally, African wild dogs are indicators of ecosystem integrity. Conservation efforts and land protections for these endangered animals not only contribute to their survival but also protect the diverse ecosystems they inhabit. By safeguarding African wild dogs, we are working towards the preservation of biodiversity and the sustainability of African ecosystems.
Conservation Works
When we make an effort to protect ENDANGERED species and restore key ecosystems we give the planet a chance at survival. One of the best ways to support the conservation of ENDANGERED species, like the African wild dog, is through charitable donations.
Be a friend to the African wild dog — make a donation through VAKOVAKO to their conservation. 100% of your contributions go towards organizations working to save endangered species.
