The African hunting dog, also known as the Cape hunting dog, is a critically endangered species, with a worldwide population of only 3 000 to 5 000 individual animals.
Yet, there’s good news for this unique and fascinating species. In Zambia’s scenic Luangwa Valley, surrounding South Luangwa National Park, these charismatic wild dogs of Africa are thriving.
Wild dog numbers in the area have been steadily increasing for the last few years and there are currently 350 individuals in the park.
Guardians of the African Hunting Dog
Zambia’s success with this species is the result of ongoing teamwork between the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNWP), Conservation South Luangwa (CSL) and the Zambian Carnivore Programme (ZCP).
Most of their work has centred on combating the snaring of wild dogs in the area, a practice which has decimated wild dog numbers in the past. They’ve achieved this by keeping a close watch on all the dogs in their care – originally around 160 dogs.
Ground-based field crews monitor the wild dogs constantly, using satellite-GPS technology and aerial tracking. This means they can act fast to save animals that do end up in snares.
The information harvested from these collared dogs has helped to identify snaring hotspots in the vicinity and allow anti-poaching patrols to focus their attentions appropriately.
Despite the success of these initiatives, the Luangwa team cannot afford to rest on their laurels for a single moment. The future of the wild dog in Africa is still at a crisis point. So, while celebrations are called for at this point, they won’t be relaxing their guard any time soon.
The Role of Tourism
These conservation efforts are supported by fees generated from mandatory conservation rates paid by visitors to South Luangwa, as well as assistance from private safari operators in the area.
It’s a matter of teamwork really, with tourism tour guides acting as the eyes and ears of the wild dog’s custodians during their daily tasks, as well as assisting with manpower whenever needed.
During November every year, Robin Pope Safaris’ Carnivore Week gives guests a chance to discover more about all the carnivores of South Luangwa and learn to appreciate the need for their conservation. Participants are offered a chance to get involved with conservation activities such as tracking and identifying animals as well as ecological surveys.
By working together, conservation and tourism role players are helping to ensure that South Luangwa remains one of the best places to see the African hunting Dog in Africa.
Do your bit for conservation by booking a luxury safari to South Luangwa National Park. Our southern African travel specialists can arrange it all for you.
