The African wild dog is also known variously as the painted dog, Cape hunting dog or painted wolf. Each animal has its own unique coat pattern consisting of mottled patches of red, black, brown, white, and yellow fur, and all have large, rounded ears.
They were once found across the continent from desert to mountain habitats but now their numbers have declined due to habitat loss and threats from farmers who see them as a danger to livestock, even though most dogs prefer wild prey.
The dogs are very social, communicating by touch, actions and vocalisations. They are known to share food and care for weak or sick members of the pack.
Conservation groups are intervening to protect African wild dogs by reducing conflict with humans and creating protected wildlife corridors to connect their ever diminishing habitats.
