Hlela
On alert, a male African wild dog surveys the perimeter near a kill, his eyes connecting with mine briefly.
Hlela means “survey” in Tsonga.
It was early evening, and the hunt was on. With the adolescent pups gorging on a buck just caught, the adults circled the perimeter, protective of their offspring. His duty was to keep a careful lookout for danger, particularly lions and hyenas, which could arrive at any moment and pounce on their feast. He was a prime specimen of a highly endangered species, one that would only survive if they could safeguard their pack continuously. With other predators around, it was always risky business to hunt and den, and thats what kept them always on the move. He knew that, so any movement or any unusual presence needed to be checked. His eyes bore through me for a few seconds as he clearly displayed an awareness of us, but only for a few moments. We were not a danger, and he knew that. Once checked, he launched away, bounding off in the style of wild dogs to another border of bush atop a small hill to continue his vigilance there.
SOME AFRICAN WILD DOG FACTS
Wild dogs boast probably the most structured social order among carnivores, residing in packs governed by a dominant male and female. All pack members assume subordinate roles to the alpha pair. These creatures tend to avoid areas frequented by lions and hyenas. In Kruger National Park, an estimated 450–500 wild dogs remain, making sightings a matter of luck. They are capable of covering vast distances, up to 250 square kilometers, and may travel over 50 kilometers in a single day in search of food.
These animals excel at cooperative hunting. Hunts typically commence at sunrise or sunset with an elaborate greeting ceremony, during which the dogs sniff, lick, wag their tails, and emit twittering sounds. They communicate with a range of chattering noises and possess a distinctive long-distance greeting call, a sharp 'Hoo,' audible miles away. Interestingly, they hunt in silence, occasionally choosing to hunt during a full moon.
During feeding, the young eat first, followed by subordinate males and females, with the alpha pair feeding at any time. Each dog patiently awaits its turn, and if there's insufficient food, the hunt recommences.
Raw Africa Collection
Welcome to Africa - the wise, the restless, and the life-giving.
This soulful land of dreamers gives rise to the underbelly of a beautiful, gentle beat that is only heard by those who listen to it. This photographic journey explores, profiles, and captures what I hope is the heart and soul of Africa's true wilderness kingdom. From its deep bush to its dry savannah and desert, Africa remains a place where life is represented by timeless vistas that are distilled into moments to treasure.
