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Wild Dogs

African Wild Dogs are also called painted dogs because of their markings, which are unique to each dog. They have mottled brown, black and beige coats, large, rounded ears and dark brown circles around their eyes. Similar in size to mid-sized domestic dogs, they differ from wolves and other dogs in that they have four toes instead of five.

Although once found widely across most of Africa, African Wild Dogs have been persecuted to the edge of extinction. It is believed that less than 4,000 now exist in the wild and, with many packs no longer having viable breeding populations, they are dying out. The main threat is from human encroachment onto their natural habitat - severely reducing the dogs’ prey – and from farmers, who shoot, snare and poison them.

African Wild Dogs have an undeserved reputation for being vicious killers. In reality, they live in a close, well-ordered society, with the young and ill given first access to food after a successful hunt. They usually live in groups of up to ten, and the whole pack helps to care for the pups. Duties include babysitting and feeding them after a hunt. They hunt anything from zebras to rodents, stalking their prey before the final chase.  Before a hunt the pack will meet together and during the hunt they communicate and coordinate by calling to each other.

Featured Trips

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  1. Walking Mobile Robin Pope Safaris

    Walking Mobile Robin Pope Safaris

    Get a lot closer to Africa by exploring Zambia on foot accompanied by some of the most experienced guides in Africa.

    Length: 11 days - Guide price from.. £3530

  2. Madikwe & Johannesburg

    Madikwe & Johannesburg

    The highlight of this trip is the hugely rewarding Madikwe Game Reserve (malaria-free) with its excellent gameviewing. Jaci’s Safari Lodge always gets rave reviews from our clients, and it is also very child-friendly if you want to take the family on safari. The Grace is a perfect haven in Joburg, and if you add an optional half day trip to Soweto at the end, this becomes a varied, exciting short holiday.

    Length: 5 days (+/-) - Guide price from.. £1140

Featured Accommodation

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  1. Chongwe River House

    Chongwe River House

    Chongwe River House is a stunning private house perfect for families and groups of friends.

  2. Old Mondoro Camp

    Old Mondoro Camp

    Old Mondoro Camp offers guests a true bush experience in the heart of Lower Zambezi National Park, with the emphasis firmly on the natural setting and its wildlife.

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