Running wild

About this book

The African wild dog (Lycaon pictus), also known as the painted wolf because of its unique markings, once ranged widely across the vast plains of sub-Saharan Africa. Today, as a result of habitat loss and extermination by livestock farmers, Africa's most endangered large carnivore is threatened with extinction. Focusing on one of the few remaining populations of African wild dogs, Running Wild depicts the fascinating daily life of the Mombo pack in Botswana's Okavango Delta. Illustrated with more than 300 color photographs, an authoritative text and detailed field notes document the hunting behaviour, play rituals, and natural history of this unusually social carnivore. The book discusses both the historical and political issues surrounding the species' conservation. A predator upon Africa's domesticated livestock, the wild dog has been targeted - much like the wolf and the coyote in North America - as a wanton killer and a threat to farmers. Uncovering extraordinary new facts about the life and habits of the African wild dog, the authors dispel long-held myths about this much-maligned species and argue for its importance in maintaining a balanced ecosystem in one of Africa's most pristine natural environments. With a glossary, an extensive bibliography, and a comprehensive index, Running Wild provides an in-depth view of African wild dogs, their conservation status, and their prospects for survival.