Why this Zambia game park is different: African wild dog packs, scarce elsewhere
Having been wiped out as pests in other parts of the continent, African wild dogs – sociable but fierce canines that hunt in packs – are making a recovery in South Luangwa National Park
The sun rises above the Muchinga Mountains, turning the Luangwa River into a shimmering pink ribbon. Huge bull hippos belch and bellow as they jockey for space in the shallows while the haunting cries of a perched African fish eagle echo across the water.
It’s not hard to see why Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park has earned itself a reputation as one of Africa’s foremost wildlife viewing destinations.
Johnathan Merkle is certainly not immune to South Luangwa’s charms. But, today, the American biologist has more on his mind than admiring the scenery. It’s time to get reacquainted with his favourite group of park animals – the “Hot Springs” African wild dog pack.
Still groggy from a restless night spent under the stars, Merkle climbs onto the roof of his Land Rover, holds up a flexible rubber antenna, and switches on his walkie talkie. Rotating the device in every direction, he finally picks up a faint beeping signal from the southwest, towards the Luangwa River.
“That’s them,” says Merkle, excitedly. “Wet season here lasts from November until mid-May, so this is the first time I’ve been able to get out in the park this year. I really want to see what condition the dogs are in.”
