CEO NOTE: 02 April 2021
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What’s in a name? Whenever we refer to ‘painted wolf’ in our stories for what many refer to as ‘wild dog’, we come under heavy artillery fire from a few members of our tribe – even experienced safari-goers and bushveld citizens. Of course, strictly speaking, Lycaon pictus is neither dog nor wolf. Our choice of ‘painted wolf’ is because the name itself is beautiful and conjures up a positive image – whereas for many people, ‘wild dog’ symbolises feral domestic dogs that rummage through city garbage dumps. Read more about this fascinating topic here.
However you refer to these totally fascinating creatures is up to you – so long as you respect them for what they are – apex predators.
Keep the passion
Simon Espley – CEO, Africa Geographic
From our Editor-in-Chief
In our first story below, some science (albeit from a small sample) shows that relocating cats that come into conflict with human beings is not particularly successful. That said, you’ll be able to find studies that show relocations can be successful. The results are not necessarily conflicting but show how important it is to understand the myriad, nuanced factors that apply to each situation.
Our second story below delves into the fascinating lives of Africa’s 11 species most closely related to man’s best friend. Interestingly, no African canid has ever been domesticated. No doubt that there are some cretinous individuals who’d love to have a fennec fox peeping out of their handbags or a painted wolf jogging with them on the beach. Let’s all make sure that Africa’s wild canids remain just that – wild, forever.
This week’s gallery showcasing the 12th week of our Photographer of the Year is a delight for the senses. It’s a perfect way for those who dream of wild places to escape their urban domesticity for a little while. One of the ways to take yourself into the wilderness is to enter – you could win 10 000 USD and a six-day safari to Khwai in Botswana. Here’s how to take part.
Story 1
https://africageographic.com/stories/translocating-lions-not-the-answer-to-reducing-conflict/
‘PROBLEM’ LIONS
Does translocating lions save them from human persecution? New research reveals the answer
Story 2
https://africageographic.com/stories/african-canids/
11 DOGS
The complete list of African canids – from excitable African painted wolves and shrewd jackals to tiny desert foxes
Story 3
https://africageographic.com/stories/photographer-of-the-year-2021-weekly-selection-week-12/
BEST PHOTOS
Week twelve of our 2021 Photographer of the Year
DID YOU KNOW: The worlds oldest known wild bird is a Laysan albatross who lives on Midway Island. Her name is Wsidom and she is 70.
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