Namibia makes African Wild Dogs a protected species

Published: 29 September 2016

Earlier this year changes were made to the legal status of the African Dog, making it an officially protected species in Namibia. Experts estimate that today there are no more than 601 African Wild Dogs currently remaining in the wild in Namibia, a rather concerning figure which led to the eventual legal status of the species changing. The changes made to the legal status of the African Wild Dog have come as a breakthrough, with conservation teams celebrating in the region earlier this year.

Nonetheless, further work is to be continued by the conservation teams in Namibia to ensure the management of the species is carried out in a pro-active manner, for example the way in which local farmers may deal with the animal as a predator to their livestock. Conservationists are hoping that the decision Namibia’s government made to protect the animal can encourage other African countries to do the same in the near future.

Stay updated and subscribe to our newsletter