10 {important} facts about African wild dogs
20 {important} facts about African wild dogs The African wild dog (Lycaon pictus)—also referred to as the African hunting dog , painted dog , and Cape hunting dog —is one of the most endangered carnivores. Lycaon pictus, means “ painted wolf,” referring to the animal's irregular patches or spots which features patches of red, black, brown, white, and yellow fur. 1 } African wild dogs they hunt for a wide variety of prey, including gazelles and other antelopes, warthogs, wildebeest calves, rats, and birds. Like most predators, they play an important role in eliminating sick and weak animals, thereby helping to maintain the natural balance in the wild areas. 2} Wild dogs kill only for food. They have a reputation for being cruel , but in fact they kill their prey as swiftly as most other predators. Prey is chased by the pack and small animals are pulled down. Larger prey may keep running while the dogs continue to bite and tear at it. 3} The African wild dog lives in