Lycaon+pictus

=Lycaon pictus ,= generally African Wild Dog, but also known as African/Cape Hunting Dog, Painted Dog/Wolf, Painted Hunting Dog, Spotted Dog or Ornate Wolf. Well, a dear child has many names.



Lycaon pictus is an endangered canid species in Africa. While Lycaon pictus can be found only in Africa, they live in semi-desert, bushy savannas and lightly wooded areas (like upland forest and short-grass plants). However, they are rarely seen.

It’s estimated that there are 3,000-5,500 free-ranging wild dogs remain in Africa, but their population trend is decreasing.

While Lycaon pictus looks and sounds like a hyena, it isn't close relative to hyena. In fact, it's close relative to Asian Dhole. Lycaon pictus' fur is short and dense. The scientific name refers to their spotted fur and every one of them has an individual pattern - just like zebras.

Their weight usually is between 18-34 kg and their size stands 60 to 85 cm at the shoulder. =

= They eat meat, hunt large or small mammals with a pack, and have a reputation for being cruel. But still, they go for "easy prey" (such as sick, old or young mammals.) Otherwise, they mostly hunt medium-sized antelope.



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Irene Kilk

Sources: http://fi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyeenakoira http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/African_Wild_Dog http://www.iucnredlist.org/apps/redlist/details/12436/0 http://www.sa-venues.com/wildlife/wildlife_wilddog.htm