African painted dogs, also known as African wild dogs or African painted wolves, are a unique canid species (Lycaon pictus) native to sub-Saharan Africa. There are fewer than 7,000 adult painted dogs in the wild. Their overall population is declining, and they are considered endangered due to human-wildlife conflict, habitat fragmentation, and disease.

Every year we celebrate African painted dogs on or around August 26. It’s a chance for us to educate our visitors and celebrate this amazing endangered species.

This year, we’ll have special enrichment with zoo keeper chats at 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm. There will be a zoo keeper table with more information about African painted dogs, activities, and ways to support wild African painted dogs. We’re also going to have a scavenger hunt, with prizes for the randomly selected winners.

Join us for a day of painted dogs and fun! And don’t forget to sign up for Dog Days Trivia on September 2.