ExploreMammals

African wild dog

Lycaon pictus

African wild dogs are colorful and social animals that live in packs. They are known for their playful nature and teamwork when hunting for food.

Habitat: Savannas

Appearance

The African wild dog has a unique coat of irregular, patchy markings in black, white, and yellow-brown, different on each individual. They possess large, rounded ears that are very distinctive. Their slender bodies and long legs are adapted for running.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassMammaliaOrderCarnivoraFamilyCanidaeGenusLycaon
African wild dog
spotted trait badgesocial trait badgecolorful trait badgesavanna trait badge
African wild dog

Category

Mammals

Rarity

Rare

Danger

3/5 · Moderate

Snaps

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Interesting facts

African wild dogs 'sneeze' to vote if the pack should hunt or rest!

These amazing hunters share their meals, even regurgitating food for pups and injured adults!

They use a variety of sounds, including hoots and growls, to talk to each other!

Wild dogs can run almost silently, allowing them to sneak up on unsuspecting prey!

Special abilities

Ability

Teamwork Tactic

African wild dogs can hunt in large groups, chasing prey until exhausted, because teamwork gives them high success rates.

Ability

Endurance Runner

The African wild dog has incredible stamina that helps them pursue prey for long distances, making them deadly hunters.

Ability

Sonic Ears

African wild dogs have large, round ears that help them hear faint sounds of prey or pack members from far away.

Measurements & details

Length
75-110 cm
Weight
18-36 kg
Lifespan
10-12 years
Top Speed
70 km/h
Litter Size
6-12
Gestation
69-73 days

Diet & Feeding

These expert hunters work together to catch and eat medium-sized animals.

Primary Foods

  • antelope
  • warthogs
  • gazelles
  • hares

Foraging Method

  • Pursuit

Ecological connections

hunts

Greater Kudu

Tragelaphus strepsiceros

A common prey item for wild dog packs.

hunts

Impala

Aepyceros melampus

Often chased by wild dogs due to their speed.

hunts

Warthog

Phacochoerus africanus

An important food source for wild dog packs.

eaten by

Lion

Panthera leo

Lions often steal wild dog kills and sometimes kill wild dogs.

Traits

Also known as

African Hunting DogPainted Wolf

Collections

Safety

Danger

3/5 · Moderate

Always watch from a distance and never try to approach wild animals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is African wild dog?

75-110 cm

How much does African wild dog weigh?

18-36 kg

How long does African wild dog live?

10-12 years

How fast can African wild dog move?

70 km/h

What does African wild dog eat?

These expert hunters work together to catch and eat medium-sized animals.

Where is African wild dog usually found?

Savannas

How does African wild dog hunt?

Pursuit

How many babies does African wild dog usually have?

6-12

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Where to spot

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