African wild dog
A species of African wild dog, Also known as Cape hunting dog, Painted hunting dog, Painted lycaon Scientific name : Lycaon pictus Genus : African wild dog
African wild dog, A species of African wild dog
Also known as:
Cape hunting dog, Painted hunting dog, Painted lycaon
Scientific name: Lycaon pictus
Genus: African wild dog
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Derek Keats , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Especially in older literature, the species is mostly called a hyena dog, because externally it resembles a hyena and also has morphological similarities, such as only four toes (instead of five like most other dogs).
General Info
Lifespan
10-12 years
Diet
African wild dog is predominantly carnivorous, specializing in hunting medium-sized ungulates, specifically impalas. Immensely cooperative, they collectively pursue and subdue their prey, demonstrating notable preference for fresh kills over carrion.
Appearance
African wild dog is a medium to large, slender canine with irregular mottled patterns of tan, black, and white fur. It has large, round ears, a bushy white-tipped tail, and impressively robust jaws, which are unmistakenly its most striking features. Unlike other canine species, its paws have four toes instead of five.
Behavior
African wild dog are highly sociable, operating in packs led by an alpha pair. They have a unique cooperative hunting strategy, relying on teamwork to chase down and exhaust prey. Unlike most canid species, african wild dog allow pups feeding priority at kills, displaying unusual altruistic behavior. They utilize a complex communication system, employing scent marking, vocalization, and body language to delineate territory and interact.
Population
Decreasing
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Mammals Order
Carnivores Family
Dogs Genus
African wild dog Species
African wild dog 
AI animal expert in your pocket
Scan QR code to download
