Dholes - Cuon alpinus
Context: Indira Gandhi Zoological Park in Visakhapatnam currently houses the highest population of dholes in India.
Important Pointers:
➤ Scientific Name: Cuon alpinus
➤ Other Names: Indian wild dog, whistling dog, red wolf, red dog, mountain wolf
➤ Distribution – Global: Found throughout Eastern and Southeastern Asia; range extends from Siberia (north) to Malaysian islands (south)
➤ Distribution – India: Present in three clusters – Western & Eastern Ghats (stronghold), central Indian landscape, and North East India
➤ Habitat: Inhabits dense jungles, steppes, mountainous areas, scrub forests, and pine forests
➤ Size: Length ranges from 76–100 cm (excluding tail); tail is 28–48 cm; weight ranges between 14–21 kg
➤ Colour Variation: Coat varies from charcoal grey to rust red to sandy beige based on habitat
➤ Tail Description: Brushy, fox-like tail with a black tip
➤ Body Markings: Lighter coloration on chest, belly, and paws
➤ Social Behaviour: Highly social; hunts in packs of 5–12; pack size may grow up to 30–40 members
➤ IUCN Red List Status: Endangered
➤ Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule II species
➤ CITES Listing: Appendix II