Why are they called Painted Dogs?
In Zimbabwe African Wild Dogs (Lycaon Pictus) are often called Painted Dogs, with the term 'painted' being taken from their Latin name 'pictus'. The 'African Wild Dog' name came about during a time when most large predators were being purposefully exterminated. It gives the impression of a feral species, a vicious killer and an animal which does not need to be conserved. In truth these dogs are one of the most ancient and unique dog species, not closely related to wolves, domestic dogs or jackals (or hyenas, which are not dogs at all but more closely related to civets and mongooses). The dogs are in serious need of protection and the use of the 'Painted Dog' name helps to break down barriers and also gave me a wonderful expedition title!
How endangered are Painted Dogs?
In a word - very. Their numbers have dropped dramatically from between 300 000 - 500,000 in 1900 to approximately 3,000 today. They have vanished from 25 of the 39 countries forming their historical range and are on the International Union for Conservation of Nature & Natural Resources (IUCN) list of endangered species. Zimbabwe contains one of the last viable dog populations. Threats to their continued survival vary in different countries but in Zimbabwe the main threats are snares intended for other species, disease, and road traffic accidents. In certain areas, like Hwange National Park, they also suffer from close proximity to large numbers of lions (which will kill dogs and their pups and steal their kills). However, across their entire range, habitat destruction is the main concern.
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