Under the current management scenario, the MTP will maintain 95% of its heterozygosity. Results showed that in the absence of any management intervention, the MTP would lose 48% of its heterozygosity over a 100-year trajectory, and KNP 12% heterozygosity. We found high levels of genetic variation, likely resulting from translocations and artificial pack formation. To achieve this, we amplified 20 microsatellite loci for genetic analysis. We evaluated whether the current approach is effective for long-term population viability and assessed whether population admixture occurs between the three populations. During this study, we questioned whether the metapopulation management plan for wild dogs has been successful at maintaining healthy levels of genetic diversity and avoiding inbreeding in packs. Because metapopulation reserves are geographically isolated, translocations are ongoing to mimic natural dispersal. These efforts have helped reduce conflict between humans and wild dogs so they can peacefully coexist.South Africa holds a viable population of the endangered African wild dog ( Lycaon pictus), with almost 500 individuals divided into (1) an unmanaged population in the Kruger National Park (KNP), (2) a free-roaming population, and (3) a managed metapopulation (MTP) that originated from reintroductions. We also track pack movements to anticipate where and when packs may run into people. We help local farmers build enclosures to protect their livestock from predators. Today, only about 6,600 individuals remain in the wild.Īfrican Wildlife Foundation is working diligently to protect these colorful carnivores.

The African wild dog has been endangered for more than two decades.

These threats along with endemic disease outbreaks have driven down their population. Being at such close proximity to people increases the risk of conflict with humans. Unsustainable development is fragmenting their habitat. This, unfortunately, makes them highly vulnerable to traps, like snares, left by poachers. They cover more than 12 miles of land per day while on the hunt. Lions and other large carnivores might be more well known for their hunting prowess than wild dogs, but the painted canid is probably the most efficient hunter. Despite these commonalities with our pets, wild dogs should remain in the wild as their name suggests. Every pack member has a role to play in hunting, raising pups, and caring for sick and injured members. Traits often prized in domestic dogs, such as intelligence and sociability, are also found in their wild counterparts. They live in a relatively peaceful social hierarchy with a dominant pair at the top. African wild dogs are social creatures that live in close-knit packs made up of anywhere between seven and 40 individuals. The African wild dog is a very unique and iconic African species best known for its colorful coat, which has earned it the name 'African painted dog.' What makes this species truly special though is more than just fur-deep. After completing his BS in Communications with a concentration in Journalism at Salem State University, he. He creates content strategies to entertain, educate, and empower global audiences so they can support African conservation.

Brett Nolan is African Wildlife Foundation's Social Media Manager.

Wild dogs of africa