African Wild Dog Hunt — Lycaon pictus

Description

The African wild dog (Lycaon pictus) is the African continent’s most efficient large predator by hunting success rate — achieving kills on over 80% of hunts, compared to approximately 25% for lions. The species is also Critically Endangered, with fewer than 6,000 animals remaining. This photograph was made from a research vehicle during an active hunt in the Venetia Limpopo Nature Reserve, South Africa — the pack in coordinated pursuit of an impala, the animals’ extreme athleticism and speed (up to 65km/h sustained over long distances) visible in the blur of movement that surrounds the tack-sharp lead animal. The individual spotted coat patterns — unique to each animal, like fingerprints — are identifiable in the lead five dogs.