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African Wild Dog Research Paper

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African wild dog classification and evolution
The african wild dog is a medium sized species of canine found across sub-saharan Africa. The african wild dog is most easily identified from both domestic and other wild dogs by their brightly mottled fur, with its name in latin aptly meaning painted wolf. The african wild dog is said to be the most sociable of all the canines, living in packs of around 30 individuals. Sadly however, this highly intelligent and sociable animal is severely under threat in much of its natural habitat, primarily due to habitat loss and having been hunted by humans.

African wild dog anatomy and appearance
The african wild dog has beautiful mottled fur which is very distinctive and makes it easy to identify. The fur …show more content…
This canine is one of the most endangered mammals on the planet. The largest populations live in southern africa and the southern part of east africa. These wild dogs are very sociable and they gather in packs of about 10, but every now and then there will be a pack the numbers up to 40. They are very bright and confident when it come to hunting they are great predators. They like to hunt and eat medium sized ruminants. When running as fast as possible wild african dogs can reach a speed of 44 miles per …show more content…
Scientist aren't sure why the fur on these animals is all so different, it has left people astonished for many years. Wild dogs are usually on the move over very large areas at a time for example they can very easily cover 900 square miles in the Serengeti. However after a litter is born they will limit their travelling and hunting to areas that are much closer to the den. African wild dogs are some of Africa’s lesser known animals and most definitely some of the most misunderstood. Due to these species being critically endangered, with only 5,000 left in the wild, sightings are rare outside of most areas. However, they are probably Africa’s best and most effective predators, boasting an 80% success rate with hunts, which is much higher than the lion's rate which lays at 30% success.Their scientific name Lycaen pictus means literally painted wolf, referencing their mottled fur with black, brown, yellow and white colourings. Every dog’s coat has a completely unique pattern making individuals easy to spot. They have an incredibly powerful bite with specialised molars for shearing meat and breaking bone and have exceptionally keen senses of sight, smell and particularly hearing. Large rounded ears lined with numerous muscles allow the dogs to swivel them like two radar dishes, picking up the minutest of sounds. Long legs, a lean build and rapid muscle

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