Welcome the Pack to Nambiti

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” — Helen Keller.

During your upcoming game drive, you will not only be on the lookout for the Big 5 but you may also encounter the latest inhabitants of Nambiti, the recently introduced African Wild Dogs.

Working hand in hand with partners in the KZN Wild Dog Management Group, including Wildlife ACT, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, and the Endangered Wildlife Trust in this exciting initiative, Nambiti has made a significant commitment to conservation by introducing a pack of African Wild Dogs, commonly referred to as Painted Hunting Dogs.

These animals, indigenous to sub-Saharan Africa, primarily inhabit savannas and lightly wooded regions. The African Wild Dog is among Africa’s most endangered yet captivating species. They hunt in packs, targeting prey much larger than themselves, and operate within a strict social hierarchy that is crucial for the pack’s survival.

The current pack consists of three individuals: an Alpha female, an Alpha male, and a Beta male. Within this structure, a pecking order is established, and although there is a dominant pair, the pack’s survival hinges on their collective efforts in hunting. African Wild Dogs typically hunt during the early morning or late evening when their prey is less likely to detect them. They communicate through their tails during hunts; a wagging tail signifies a successful pursuit, while a drooping tail indicates that the prey is escaping.

Upon their release into the reserve, the pack was closely monitored to ensure their successful adaptation to life in Nambiti. This involved extensive tracking, and the dedication paid off when we observed these dogs hunting and thriving in their new habitat.

Once prevalent across the continent, African Wild Dogs are now critically endangered. However, numerous conservation initiatives are in progress to protect this extraordinary species, and Nambiti is honoured to contribute to these vital efforts.

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