How to identify african wild dog
- Very large rounded ears
- Patchwork black, tan and white coat
- Bushy tail commonly ending in white
Do not identify from one clue alone.
Distance, age, sex, season and light can change an animal’s appearance. Combine several visible features and keep “not sure” as a valid answer.
Behaviour and habitat
What you may notice
Lives and hunts cooperatively in packs
What you may notice
Uses energetic greeting ceremonies
What you may notice
May travel substantial distances between rests
Where it fits
Savanna, woodland and open bushveld across large ranges.
What can it be confused with?
Black-backed jackals are smaller, usually travel alone or in pairs and have a clear dark saddle rather than an irregular patchwork coat.
View it responsibly
Give a resting pack space and never follow at speed. Pack movements can change quickly and a road must remain passable.
Location protection applies.
Wild This Way withholds or generalises sensitive wildlife positions. Never add a road number, landmark or exact pin to a public post.