African Wild Dog

Africa · super predator · pack hunters · endangered

Painted coat pattern. African wild dogs have mottled fur with patches of red, brown, black, and white that look like abstract art. Each dog has a completely unique pattern, like a fingerprint, so scientists can recognize individuals by their spots and stripes.

Massive pack hunters. These dogs hunt in packs of up to 30 animals and work together with incredible teamwork to chase down antelope and wildebeest. They're so organized that they take turns chasing prey, with some dogs falling back to rest while others keep the pursuit going.

Super-speed runners. African wild dogs can reach speeds of 50 miles per hour while hunting and have amazing stamina for long chases across the savanna. Their long legs and lightweight build make them built like natural racing machines.

Hypercarnivore teeth. Their teeth are specially shaped for eating meat and they have no dewclaws (the small claws higher up on their legs like dogs have). This makes them perfectly adapted to be hunters, with nothing wasted on features they don't need.

Critically endangered. African wild dogs are disappearing because their hunting areas are shrinking and they sometimes get diseases from domestic dogs. There are only about 6,600 left in the wild today.