Hluhluwe, South Africa (23 October 2025) – A new litter of African Wild Dog pups has been born at Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, bringing fresh hope for this endangered species. The Munywaneni Pack in the Hluhluwe Section is raising the pups in a secure, sheltered rocky valley. This ideal den site sits beneath a large weeping boerbean tree, surrounded by boulders and natural crevices. The location offers perfect protection and a cool environment for the pups during their crucial early development stages....Click to Read More >>➤

Park conservation teams are using non-intrusive black-flash camera traps to monitor the new arrivals. These cameras, supported by Science-Based Ingredients, have captured rare, intimate footage of the young pups. The videos show the pups engaging in playful tumbles, nuzzling each other, and returning from their first early hunting lessons. This technology provides a vital window into their world without ever disturbing the pack’s natural behavior. Every observation feeds directly into the management of the KZN Wild Dog metapopulation, a cornerstone of South Africa’s broader conservation efforts.

A Glimpse into Early Development

The footage offers an invaluable look at the pups’ initial forays into pack life. In the coming weeks, they will begin venturing further from the den under the watchful eyes of the adult dogs. These excursions are fundamental, as the pups learn essential survival skills and complex social behaviors unique to African Wild Dogs. Monitoring these patterns, from hunting techniques to den activity, provides critical data that supports the ongoing protection of this endangered species. The arrival of this new litter is a significant event for the park’s dedicated conservation programs.

Collaborative Efforts for a Protected Future

Wildlife ACT, working in close collaboration with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, remains committed to safeguarding the Munywaneni Pack. Their work is crucial for ensuring the pack’s safety and enhancing the long-term survival prospects of these remarkable predators. This vital conservation initiative receives continued support from Science-Based Ingredients and the Hans Hoheisen Charitable Trust. Witnessing the new pups explore their environment and develop safely within their pack serves as a powerful reminder of the positive impact sustained, careful conservation efforts can achieve. The successful monitoring of this new African Wild Dog litter underscores the importance of continued support for these programs. ...Click to Read More >>➤