Interesting facts about: Wild Dogs

Wild dog at Mala Mala

• The dog's Latin name means "painted wolf," referring to the animal's irregular, mottled coat, which features patches of red, black, brown, white, and yellow fur. Each animal has its own unique coat pattern, and all have big, rounded ears.

• Wild dogs have bushy tails with white tips that may serve as a flag to keep the pack in contact while hunting 

• Wild dogs live mostly in arid zones and in the savanna. They also are found in woodland and montane habitats where their prey lives.

• They usually hunt in the early morning and again in late evening, prettying on gazelles and other antelopes, warthogs, wildebeests calves and rat and birds

• They can run long distances, at speeds up to about 35 miles per hour.

• These long-legged canines have only four toes per foot, unlike other dogs, which have five toes on their forefeet. 

• African hunting dogs are endangered. They are faced with shrinking room to roam in their African home. They are also quite susceptible to diseases spread by domestic animals.

• Once a year the pack occupies a den for 2 - 3 months, to bear young. The den is usually an abandoned aardvark hole

• Within the wild dog pack all the males are related to each other, and all of the females to each other but not to the males. Females migrate into the pack, whereas males usually stay with their natal pack.

• Only the highest-ranking male and female normally breed, and they inhibit reproduction by subordinates

• They have a submission-based hierarchy, instead of a dominance based one.

• Nearly 80% of all wild dog hunts end in a kill compared to only 30% of lion kills.

• The African Wild Dog hunts in packs and are cursorial hunters, meaning that they pursue their prey in a long, open chase.

Play fighting -  a vital lesson when growing up

Photo of the Week - Wild Dog

Found only in Africa, the Wild dog is also known as: 

Painted Dog

Painted Hunting Dog

African Hunting Dog

Cape Hunting Dog

Spotted Dog

Painted Wolf

Their conservation status is: threatened

African wildlife drunk on Marula Fruit!

Marula fruit is a favourite of elephants and many other animals in Africa... have a look at the alleged effects of this fruit on them!

Lodge of the Week - Thornybush Game Lodge

Classic yet Contemporary

Thornybush Game Lodge, set against the backdrop of the northernmost part of the Drakensberg mountain range, is sheer luxury in the pristine bush of the lowveld. The lodge has been operating since the late 1960’s making it one of the oldest safari establishments in South Africa and their experience in the safari industry is evident. Large, deciduous Jackalberry and Weeping Boer Bean trees provide relieving shade and cover to the main deck where visitors are welcome to enjoy delectable meals or laze on one of the large couches. The accommodation consists of 18, well spread out, luxury rooms and 2 family suites (Safari Suites) each living up to their 5 Star status. The large bathrooms are open to the surrounding bush through expansive windows affording guests grand views of the Monwana tributary. Guests have the option of using the bathing facilities inside, or for those looking for a more intimate nature experience - an adjoining outdoor shower can provide this in complete privacy. A special touch is the surprise bush dinners/snacks that the Thornybush Game Lodge team organise. Choosing from a number of unique and special spots on the reserve, the staff treat visitors to exceptional food and drinks under the starry skies of the African bush. Those looking for extra pampering can indulge themselves at the Amani Spa located in the camp. The health-spa offers a complete range of treatments and is staffed by 2 full-time therapists.

The lodge is found in the 11500 hectare, Big 5, Thornybush Game Reserve which lies adjacent to the famous Kruger National Park and Timbavati Game Reserve. The area is home to over 250 bird species, large numbers of general game, both Black and White Rhino, and Cheetah. The area is made up of mixed woodland and open savannah complimented by panoramic views of the majestic Drakensberg Mountains. Game drives are the primary activity as guests set off with their knowledgeable guides and trackers in open Land Rovers searching for the diverse wildlife that this area is famous for. The other option is guided bush walking, which is a great way to see the smaller things that are often overlooked on drives. Guides will help guests to become better acquainted with the fauna and flora in the area - looking at everything from insects to the medicinal uses of the trees and plants. Additional activities available at the guests request include the Moholoholo Rehabilitation Centre, Hoedspruit Cheetah Project, cultural tours and white-water rafting.

A combination of great game viewing and a luxury stay make this perfect for those looking for a well rounded bush experience. The lodge is ideal for families, groups and conferences. Children are welcome and the lodge offers a fun children’s program including walks and brat packs. Given the excellent service and ability of the staff to look after their visitor’s every need, the lodge makes a perfect romantic getaway for honeymooners or couples.

For more information, please visit The Game Lodge Index

Wildlife in the News: Police hunt rhino poachers

Police hunt rhino poachers
2010-08-24 17:01

Polokwane - Police were on Tuesday looking for a gang of between five and eight men who shot dead two rhinoceros and removed their horns on a farm in Limpopo.

After the gang fled the scene on Monday afternoon the K9 police unit, trackers and the farming community launched a search, but were not successful, Lieutenant Colonel Ronel Otto said.

The gang, armed with rifles and axes, assaulted and tied up two workers on the farm, between Mookgopong and Vaalwater, before going to the rhino enclosure.

After removing the horns, the gang ran to a car waiting nearby.

- SAPA

Interesting facts about: Rhinos

A rhino's horn is not a true horn that is attached to the skull. It grows from the skin and is made up of keratin fibres, the same material found in hair and nails.

Black rhinos have a prehensile lip that is used much like a finger to select and pick the leaves and twigs they prefer.

Black rhinos travel alone except while breeding or raising offspring. Juveniles remain with the mother until they are completely weaned just before a new baby is born.

Rhinos aren’t really bad tempered—they often charge because they are startled

A group of rhinos is called a “crash.”

Rhinoceros roll in mud so they don’t get sunburned.

A rhino dung pile can be 3 feet high!

Photo of the Week

White Rhinoceros - White Rhinos are coloured a pale grey and they only have hair on their ear fringes and tail bristles. They have a distinctive broad, flat mouth which enables them to graze efficiently.