A remarkable sighting has occurred at 4 Rivers Camp in Botswana’s Kwara Private Concession where a rare leucistic wild dog pup was born.
This sighting is an exceptional event as such occurrences have been virtually unheard of in Botswana over the past three decades.
‘In the 1990s, guides in the Kwando region first noticed leucistic pups. Some male members from the Kwando pack moved to the Vumbura area, forming what is now known as the Golden Pack,’ said Dr J.W ‘Tico’ McNutt, Director at Wild Entrust.
‘From this lineage, female descendants later established a family in Kwara, where the leucism was still apparent but somewhat diluted.’
Leucism, a genetic condition that affects the pigmentation of skin, feathers, or hair, causes the puppy at 4 Rivers to display an extraordinary white coloration. Meanwhile, the Vumbura “golden” dogs showcase a striking pale tan tone.
Currently, the leucistic puppy interacts harmoniously with its siblings and adult African wild dogs, displaying dominance when it comes to receiving food from the adults. Dr J.W ‘Tico’ McNutt speculates on the puppy’s future development, stating, ‘This pup might darken as it ages, and there is an outside chance that its whole body is one big white patch, which sometimes happens with domestic dogs and cats.’
Dedicated guides at 4 Rivers are closely monitoring the puppy’s progress, eagerly observing how its colouration will evolve over time.
Kwando Safaris extends gratitude to Botswana’s expert researchers, including Dr Peter Apps, Dr Gabriele Cozzi, and the Botswana Predator Conservation, for their invaluable insights and contribution to understanding this rare occurrence in the wild.
Nature enthusiasts and safari lovers are invited to embark on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure at 4 Rivers in the Okavango Delta. Experience the wonders of the African wilderness and be part of this extraordinary discovery.
Keep following Kwando Safaris for updates on this rare phenomenon.
Watch the video of this pup below.
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