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Each dog is individually marked with black and gold, white and tan. Recognising the fact that they are a distinct carnivore having no close canid relatives, the scientific name Lycanaon pictus translates as painted, wolf-like animal and not painted wolf as is incorrectly qouted in many texts.
In each pack, the alpha pair breeds once a year, while all other pack members assist to feed, protect and rear the pups.
Painted hunting dogs are truly sociable animals which thrive on co-operation. Bonds between members are continually reinforced at 'greeting ceremonies' which usually occur before the daily hunt but are also seen during play interactions. Unlike other large carnivores, Painted hunting dogs rarely fight amongst themselves even for dominance or food. Also very touching, and unlike most animals, they will care for their sick and injured by returning to regurgitate food or lick wounds clean when necessary.
The dogs are true hunters and do not scavenge, hence their being named 'hunting dogs'. They hunt at dawn, at dusk and by the light of a full moon. In Zimbabwe, approximately 98% of their diet consists of duiker, impala, and kudu. They are very efficient hunters and their prey is killed swiftley by disembowelment which , though it may not sound very efficient, is in fact very quick. As a result, and contrary to popular belief, their prey is generally dispatched in seconds rather than minutes.
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 Wild Dog Gallery |