*A version of this article originally appeared in the October 2021 Bush Telegraph newsletter. You can read our recent newsletters and sign-up to receive these in your inbox on our Bush Telegraph newsletter page.
Over the last 18 years, 4,000 animals from a number of key species have been translocated to Malawi’s national parks as part of an impressive initiative to safeguard biodiversity and ensure the socio-economic success of conservation and tourism to local people. Significant thought, care and investment go into each of these moves, and the latest predators to arrive carry special importance because of their highly endangered status.
In an ambitious and historic conservation move, 14 African wild dogs have been reintroduced into two of Malawi’s national parks: eight in Liwonde and six in Majete. Teams from the Endangered Wildlife Trust and the non-profit African Parks flew animals in from four separate parks in South Africa and Mozambique to form the new packs in a major international effort to conserve this threatened mammal. With just 6,600 individuals remaining in Africa, and only around 700 breeding pairs, collaborative initiatives like this one are crucial to the survival of the species.
The 14 wild dogs were flown in a single aircraft from Mozambique to Malawi’s capital Blantyre and onward to temporary ‘bomas’ (fenced pens) for acclimatisation before being released into the wider park areas. Their long-term protection is paramount, so the packs have been fitted with a mix of GPS and radio collars to facilitate the continual monitoring of their location and habitat use.
For a snapshot of the dogs’ incredible journey, check out African Parks’ minute-long video of their trip. And for a chance to see these new arrivals in person – and much more besides – check out Expert Africa’s Malawi safaris.
If you’ve been inspired and want to find out more, give us a call or enquire now to speak to an expert.
