African wild dog

African wild dogs form packs of up to 40 members, each with a dominant breeding pair, that remain monogamous for life. These gregarious animals are co-operative hunters, relying on sight rather than smell to pinpoint their prey. Hunts tend to occur at dawn and dusk, but on occasion the dogs will venture out if there is a full moon. They chase until their prey tires, reaching speeds up to 55 kmph, and sometimes disemboweling prey it while it is still running. 

 

Scientific name: Lycaon pictus
Rank: Species

Common names:

• African hunting dog,
• Cape hunting dog,
• Painted hunting dog,
• Painted wolf,
• Spotted dog