![]() There is no bilateral symmetry in the pattern. ![]() ![]() Dogs from Southern African populations are larger than East African ones and consequently approximately 3-5 (6-11lb) kg lighter.Ĭoat: Variable in length with each individual having a unique pattern comprising of black, gold and white. Long distances have also been recorded with animals dispersing with distances in the order of 250 km as the crow flies from the last territory being recorded. On record from Zimbabwe was a pack that traveled 43 km in two and a half hours with full stomachs bringing food back to the den. The mobility of the dogs is impressive with the dogs easily ranging 20-30 km in a day and often at speed. This drifting territoriality has dogs seemingly avoiding one another. Consequently, on the whole, territories do not overlap at any point in time and just drift seemingly in relational avoidance with neighbouring packs. Territories: In keeping with the nomadic nature of the dogs, territories are not fixed in space though they may remain constant over a wet or dry season, and then shift as circumstances change. Where habitat is suitable and good resident prey populations exist, Painted dog densities average only one pack per 400sq km (150sq mi), while in less optimal habitats, densities as low as one per 2,000sq km (770sq mi) are not uncommon. Painted dogs have been recorded in widely varying environments. Habitat: From semi-desert to grassland although savanna woodland mosaic and forest is preferred. Additional known populations in Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, Zambia, Namibia. Stronghold populations in Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Botswana, South Africa. Historic Distribution: Throughout Africa excluding true rain forest and desert.Ĭurrent Distribution: Patchily distributed in sub-Saharan Africa. The name "wild dog" developed during the era of persecution of all predators when the name was derogatorily applied to feral dogs, hyaenas, jackals and Cape hunting dogs. Lycaon pictus translates as "painted wolf-like animal," which highlights the multi-coloured patterning of the dogs as well as indicating the similarity in appearance only with true dogs' genus Canis whilst at the same time recognising the uniqueness of the species. The first name denoted to the species from a type specimen in Mozambique was the Cape hunting dog (Temminck, 1820). Names: African painted dog, African wild dog, Painted hunting dog, Cape hunting dog, African hunting dog Threats: Painted Dog populations continue to decline as a result of ongoing habitat fragmentation, conflict with farmers and livestock, snares, road accidents, and infectious disease. Status: Endangered, with just over 1,400 mature individuals (IUCN, 2012) in a population of perhaps 5,000 including 2,500 in stronghold populations and 2,500 elsewhere.
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