African Wild Dogs have fascinated researchers with their inter-pack cooperation. Each dog seems to have his own job or niche within the group and the pack at the Houston Zoo is no exception. Blaze, Aries, and Mikita appear to have taken on manifestations of what their jobs would be in a wild pack.
Blaze, The Hunter
Blaze is the 9 year old littermate of Aries and the uncle of Mikita. He is the most distinguishable from the other two by his predominantly golden coat and long tail. Blaze is the most food motivated dog in the pack and is usually the first to investigate new items in the exhibit to test for palatability. This bravery and apparent drive for food indicates he might make a great hunter. Wild dog packs are known for their hunting prowess as they are successful in over 80% of their hunts.
Profiles by Carnivore Keeper Samantha Junker
Want to learn more about wild dogs? Get your tickets to see Dr. Greg Rasmussen, founder of the Painted Dog Conservancy , speak at the Houston Zoo on March 23!
Want to learn more about Blaze? Join us for a special event at the African Wild Dog Exhibit before the talk – get your tickets to both events here!
