AroUnD the JerSeY Shore The Wild Dogs Of AfricaDisappearing

from 2023-08-12 - The Manchester Times

AroUnD the JerSeY Shore Meet George Washington: “First In War, First In Peace, And First In The Hearts Of Our Countrymen”

Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

The wild dogs of Africa are a special group of hunting dog. Also referred to as the painted dog or Cape hunting dog, their coats have unique markings where no two dogs look exactly alike. Essential for survival, their fur consists of black, brown, red, white, and yellow patches, rendering them nearly undetectable. Unlike domestic dogs, each foot has only four toes. Their ears are disk shaped that swivel to detect even the slightest sounds in the distance. They can sprint at speeds of up to 44 miles per hour.

Efficient hunters, they utilize a true pack mentality, living and dying for each other. The greater the size of their clan, the more successful the hunt. Unfortunately, those older adults who are not breeding, will sacrifice their place at the kill to ensure the young get enough food to eat. Smaller clans with less offspring will mean that there are less mouths to feed, and therefore, older adults will have more food available to them.

Each clan has a monogamous pair of alpha dogs to lead the pack. Everyone cares for each litter, which means nursing the pups, guarding the pups, and even regurgitating meat after a hunt.

Packs consist of 6 to 20 or more who will hunt antelopes and if the pack is large enough, larger prey like wildebeests. Communicating with each other by actions, touch, and vocalizations – before a hunt begins, they playfully circle each other in what appears to be psyching each other up for the task ahead. True to family, they are one of the few mammals who care for their sick, elderly, and disabled members of the pack.

In 2019, The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Red List declared the African wild dog among the world’s most endangered mammals. With approximately 6,600 remaining, the biggest threats facing them come from human contact. With habitat loss and competing for space to hunt, local villagers take revenge upon the dogs blaming them for viral diseases and killing their livestock.

I gathered the information for this article from multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732-244-2768.

It’s illegal to possess, relocate, or cause harm to wildlife for any reason. Managing wildlife without the proper state/federal permits is illegal. Violating laws protecting wildlife is punishable by law.

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