Wild Dogs
Posted: Thu Jul 11, 2013 6:20 pm
Link to pictures: Crossroads Pack: Six Wild Dog pups born
https://zululandobserver.co.za/209963/k ... spotlight/
Keeping painted dog conservation in the spotlight
Two new packs of African wild dogs have been successfully released
2 hours ago
One of the Sisuze pack dogs was sedated for the taking of blood samples for genetic testing PHOTO: Bart Koorn
THE successful formation of two new African wild dog packs in northern KZN reserves is being celebrated by all conservation authorities involved.
A rare and endangered species, the African wild dog, affectionately called the painted dog, is closely monitored by Wildlife ACT in conjunction with other conservation bodies, in a bid to ensure the survival of the species.
The two new packs – one in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Park and the other in the Manyoni Private Game Reserve – spent many months bonding in bomas after having been captured and relocated to what would be their new turf.
A collaboration between Wildlife ACT, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife and the Endangered Wildlife Trust, the Sisuze pack, a then newly formed pack, was released into the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park in October.
The Siyavikela pack in its new territory in the Manyoni Private Game Reserve
PHOTO: Wildlife ACT
Before the release, a few dogs were sedated so blood samples could be collected for genetic testing.
The painted dog meta-population in southern Africa is managed in such a way to maximise genetic diversity and resilience.
Once sampling was complete, the dogs were revived and the boma gates opened.
After some hesitation, the pack made its way through the gates and onto their new turf.
Meanwhile, the Siyavikela pack was late last month released in the Manyoni Private Game Reserve, and since then the pack’s movements have been closely monitored by the teams.
On their release, the pack eagerly explored their new territory and have since been working well together.
Courtesy of the Hans Hoheisen Charitable Trust, tracking collars were fitted to some pack members, which aids in Wildlife ACT’s monitoring of this endangered species.