The African wild dog

The first time I saw these cuties in Chobe. We drove past, when one of the travelers in our group noticed something in the bushes on the side. It turned out that this wild dogs who have recently successfully hunted. At this time their prey became impala. Vidocq they have at this point was eerie: the muzzle in the blood, grinning jaws - well, just a dog from hell. Our ranger said then that we were very lucky. They are already 2 years have not seen in this area Lycaon pictus.



When we were in the area of ​​the river Kwai, went home to see these animals. Over there, under the trees dug pits and holes. This is where the wild dogs live. See on the left is a couple? Closer to drive up it is impossible. They left quite a bit, and wild dogs are protected by the state, so not to scare them, you can only watch from afar.



Although we are, it seems, do not pay attention and willingly posed. With a telephoto can be had easily make a sufficient number of images.



We stood in silence, with the engine off. However, from time to time the dogs something bothered and they in turn jumped and looked off into the distance.



In general, wild dogs were pretty relaxed. They belong to the family of canines and their relatives coming - red wolves.



Dogs are quite large. Weight adult reaches 36 kg. Externally, males and females differ quite a bit. Although males slightly larger.



Usually in a flock of about 20 dogs.



At Cape hunting dogs powerful jaws and teeth. Their teeth they can to crack bones.



Drawing on the skin is unique for each dog as human fingers. They can be distinguished on this basis. Sometimes come completely black specimens.



Hunting dog pack. Their main prey - a variety of antelope. Basically, impala and kudu. They are also willing to attack larger prey if they are sick or stray pups. In times of famine can catch rats and other small animals. African dogs, as well as our wolves are capable of quite a long stalk their prey. However, they can reach speeds of up to 50 kilometers per hour.



Each pack has a dominant male and female.



Typically, the alpha male is the largest in the pack.



Fighting in the pack are rare. Gives birth to puppies only the alpha female. That it can sometimes start a fight with other females when they estrus.



Males usually spend all their life in the same pack. A matured females often go to other dogs to lead them. Wild dogs live very amicably together educate and take care of the offspring.



I must say that in this area we do not particularly lucky with interesting animals. By lair of wild dogs we drove 2 hours, no less. It seemed that it was not quite what we expected. No, of course watch them very well. But I wanted something more. And then there was something really quite extraordinary.



From the lair seemed puppies. It was totally unexpected. Lycaon pictus not so common, and there is not only a real flock, but also cubs.



Puppies are born blind and deaf, and all black. The spots begin to appear later, when the kids grow up.



Adult dogs are constantly monitoring the puppies. They can easily become a victim of predatory birds, hyenas and even lions. These animals have enough enemies in the savannah.



That is why young adults are trying to hide in the den like this.



But the kids of course difficult to sit still. Around because so many interesting things!



And should definitely stick his nose everywhere.



Just like an adult!



In addition to the joint care of the kids, pack members care for the sick and wounded relatives. Healthy dogs fed them until they are unable to move independently.



Now, when you swear by someone called "wild dog", you will be more clear about whom it is talking about. Not such a terrible creature, these wild dogs. Although the smell of them ... Let's just say - specific.



Source: dmytrocherkasov.livejournal.com