The wild dog, also known as the African or Cape hunting dog, is the rarest of the Serengeti predators with a population estimated to be less than 100. Disease and persecution by man have led to the reduction of the population to its current endangered level.
The [L3 505 / wild dog] has the social behavior and movements of a domestic dog and the killer instincts of a hyena. Its coat gives it the appearance of a mangy mutt; no two are exactly alike. It may be covered with black, brown and / or yellow blotches with prominent white markings on the legs and tail. The wild dog's short, powerful muzzle houses shearing teeth and its ears are disproportionately large.
It is a [G 13 / diurnal] creature, using its excellent vision and keen sense of smell to locate prey and other predators during the dim hours of the day. The body of the wild dog is well proportioned and adapted for running. While it is not particularly fast by predator's standards (maximum speed of 30 miles per hour), it can maintain a steady pace for miles. In contrast, the cats are much faster but are only able to maintain their sprints for short distances.
Wild dogs live and hunt in packs on the coverless plains. Unlike the cats which rely on surprise, packs make no attempt to hide from their prey. Once an animal is singled out for the kill, the pack trots steadily towards it then fans out forming a half circle cutting off escape routes. They chase it doggedly, snapping at its heels until the animal stops running and turns to face them. The dogs rely on their powerful jaws and [P 005 / teamwork to immobilize their prey]. One bites into the nose or upper lip while another tugs on the tail or flank. When the animal is subdued the others begin to disembowel it.
Their hunting success is due in part to selection of prey. They tend to single out young wildebeest and gazelles or vulnerable adults. Although their method of hunting and high level of cooperation are effective, they often lose their kills to the larger hyena which also hunt in groups.
Packs range from seven to 30 individuals, including adults and pups. Pups are cared for communally. Food is regurgitated for pups and guardians that protect them while the rest of the pack hunts. Pups are always fed first and the adults divide what is left, unlike male lions which take food from other pride members and cubs get what is left.
Like the domestic dog towards its owner, wild dogs display signs of affection, playfulness and loyalty toward one another. The group is cohesive, remaining together until the females reach sexual maturity. They leave the pack and are accepted by another while males stay in the pack they are born into preventing inbreeding.
