African Wild Dog
Lycaon pictus
Endangered
IUCN Red List status · Population decreasing as of 2024 · Est. 6,600 individuals
About the African Wild Dog
African wild dogs are among Africa's most successful hunters. They rely heavily on teamwork within their packs.
These highly social carnivores communicate through vocalizations and body language. Pack members cooperate when hunting and raising pups. Disease, habitat fragmentation, and human conflict remain major threats. Protected landscapes are essential for their survival.
Region
Southern Africa
Population
6,600
Trend
Data Year
2024
Key Facts
Habitat Types
Found In
Why Africa's Wildlife Matters
Africa's megafauna are not just iconic — they are ecosystem engineers. The loss of a single keystone species can trigger cascading collapses across entire biomes. Elephants create waterholes, lions regulate prey, and predators maintain the biodiversity that keeps Africa's grasslands and forests functioning.
20%
of Earth's bird species in Africa
25%
of mammals found in Africa
3,000+
endemic plant species at risk
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Quick Stats