Source: ETV
Subject: Species in News
Context: A rare Asiatic Wild Dog (Dhole) has been camera-trapped for the first time in Ratapani Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh, indicating improving habitat and prey conditions.
About Asiatic Wild Dog (Dhole):
What is it?
- The Asiatic Wild Dog, commonly called the Dhole (Cuon alpinus), is a wild canid native to South and Southeast Asia. It is a highly social, pack-hunting top predator that plays a key role in regulating herbivore populations.
Habitat and distribution:
- Preferred habitats: Dense forests, forest-grassland mosaics, and hilly/undulating landscapes with adequate prey.
- India: Found mainly in central Indian forests and the Western/Eastern Ghats, typically within or near large protected landscapes where prey base is strong.
- Ecological requirement: Needs large, connected habitats because packs range widely and depend on continuous prey availability.
IUCN Red List: Endangered (EN)
Key characteristics:
- Pack hunter: Typically hunts in cooperative groups, relying on teamwork rather than solitary ambush.
- Prey preference: Medium-to-large ungulates such as chital, sambar, deer, etc.
- Highly social: Lives in clans/packs with cooperative care of young; strong coordination during hunts.
- Distinctive identity: Reddish coat, rounded ears, and specialised dentition adapted for meat-shearing.
- Competition: Coexists with tigers and leopards; overlaps in prey but often differentiates through hunting strategy and pack behaviour.
Significance:
- Presence suggests good prey base + habitat quality + reduced disturbance.
- Adds another apex/meso-level predator, improving trophic balance and biodiversity stability.
