AFRICAN WILD DOGS

African Wild Dogs are hunting dogs that are normally found in the savannah and dry zones of African which are Kenya, Zambia, Botswana, South Africa, etc… They are also found in hilly savannah countries and can also be found in the deep forest. They are the most efficient hunter to mankind and can run at a speed of 35mph. They are considered to be very quiet social and very intelligent. 


Fun Facts about African Wild Dogs
Their Scientific name means "Painted Wolf" 
They are always in a pack(family) of 6-20 
The males stay in their natural pack while the females migrate ans join new packs.
Their pups are old enough to eat solid foods.


Why are they endangered?

Loss of Territory- As human population is increasing  so is our towns and cities, which creates a smaller room or environment for these packs to grow in, making them lose their space of growth and habitat and also they are strongly affected by the competition with larger carnivores  

Oppression from Human- As the human populations space increases, they a conflict between the dogs. They are often shot as a threat to their livestocks and out of fear. Some are poisoned and killed by hunters. Some are also knocked down by cars and many more. 

Infectious Diseases- Many of the dogs are infected by rabies, canine distemper, anthrax, Ehrlichiosis and many other virus and bacteria. They get infected through  their prey they feed on from livestocks. 


Predators- Carnivores like the lion and hyena kill their wild dog pups(cubs) at the brooding site, which makes   the packs expand to more unprotected areas, making them more unsecured/unprotected.





How can we save them?

Adopting a wild dog - There are wild life conservation center across countries adopting wild dogs. Buying a adoption kits, which values from $50-$1000. You receive pictures of the pups(dog) you are adopting, adoption certificate, a plush and other collegiate of the dog. 

Community Outreach- Local farmers and citizens needs to be aware of the dangers and effect they are having on the wild dogs, and they should come up with a way or plan of protecting their livestock or reduce the fear they have in them(community memebers) concerning the wild dogs. And also avoid unnecessary hunting and claiming on their(wild dog) space. 

Photo Credit Rouben Bote

Teachers and professors(conservation specialist) should educate the youth, and local schools on dangers and awareness of wild life conversations and making them wild life leaders.
Vaccination of domestic and wild life dog campaign awareness should be raised. Visit local conservation center and take action by signing petition for the government to sponsor wild conservation. Every year the government cut budget across board, which has a huge negative impact on funding for conversations.  

Let’s be mindful of the decision we make that affects our planet!!!