Cape wild dog

The Cape wild dog, also known as the South African wild dog, Cape hunting dog, or painted wolf, is a captivating subspecies of the African wild dog found primarily in Southern Africa. This particular subspecies is the largest, typically weighing between 20 to 25 kilograms. What truly sets them apart is their strikingly colorful coat, which varies in pattern depending on their habitat.

Southern Africa is a stronghold for these wild dogs, with significant populations thriving in countries like Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, particularly in the Kruger National Park. Zambia also boasts healthy populations in Kafue National Park and the Luangwa Valley. Unfortunately, these captivating animals are rare in Malawi and are believed to be extinct in Angola and Mozambique.

The Cape wild dog holds a special place in the folklore of the San people of Southern Africa. Their mythology often features the wild dog in tales about the origins of death, epic battles among gods, and legends where shamans transform into wild dogs to hunt. Despite this rich cultural significance, the Cape wild dog does not appear frequently in San rock art.