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Painted Dog Conservation
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Painted Dog Conservation
Home
Who we are
Conservation programs
Education and Outreach programs
Meet the team
The PDC photo album
About the species
Threats and challenges
FAQ
News Updates
Donate
Publications
Contact Us
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Folder: About us
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Who we are
Conservation programs
Education and Outreach programs
Meet the team
The PDC photo album
Folder: About the dogs
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About the species
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Be part of the pack, donate now to help protect painted dogs https://give.wildnet.org/campaign/805190/donate #painteddogconservation #savethepainted #endangeredspecies #wildlifeconservation
Every sunrise begins with protection.

Before the day begins across the landscape, our anti-poaching teams are already on the ground. Alongside trained detection dogs like Soma, they patrol the landscapes that painted dogs and other wildlife depend o
Every sunrise begins with protection. Before the day begins across the landscape, our anti-poaching teams are already on the ground. Alongside trained detection dogs like Soma, they patrol the landscapes that painted dogs and other wildlife depend on — monitoring threats, supporting field operations, and helping keep these ecosystems safe. Protecting painted dogs is about more than responding to threats. It is about being present, every day, in the places where wildlife needs protection most. Every patrol. Every landscape. Every sunrise matters. #painteddogconservation #painteddogs #conservation #WildlifeProtection #antipoaching #ConservationDogs #ProtectWildlife #Zimbabwe #ConservationInAction
Investing in the next generation of conservationists.

We are grateful to UK based Culford School's Zimbabwe Trip Fundraising Team for their generous donation of iPads to the Wilton Nsimango Children’s Bush Camp.

The iPads will provide young l
Investing in the next generation of conservationists. We are grateful to UK based Culford School's Zimbabwe Trip Fundraising Team for their generous donation of iPads to the Wilton Nsimango Children’s Bush Camp. The iPads will provide young learners with greater access to digital learning resources and conservation education, creating new opportunities to explore wildlife, biodiversity and the environment through technology alongside their hands-on experiences at the Bush Camp. For us, this donation represents more than technology. It is an investment in young people and in the next generation of conservationists who will help shape the future of Zimbabwe’s wildlife and natural heritage. Thank you to everyone at Culford School and the Zimbabwe trip fundraising team who contributed to making this possible. #painteddogconservation #wiltonnsimangochildrenbushcamp #CulfordSchool #conservationeducation #WildlifeEducation #Zimbabwe #YouthInConservation #DigitalLearning #environmentaleducation
Human-wildlife coexistence depends on informed communities and strong collaboration.

Painted Dog Conservation joined @_zimparks , the Zimbabwe Republic Police, Forestry Commission, Hwange Rural District Council, Shangano Arts Trust and local traditi
Human-wildlife coexistence depends on informed communities and strong collaboration. Painted Dog Conservation joined @_zimparks , the Zimbabwe Republic Police, Forestry Commission, Hwange Rural District Council, Shangano Arts Trust and local traditional leadership for a community wildlife awareness engagement in Shangano, Hwange. The engagement focused on human-wildlife conflict, responsible environmental stewardship and the importance of working together to protect communities and wildlife. PDC also used the opportunity to raise awareness about painted dogs, the threats they face and the importance of reporting wildlife crimes to the relevant authorities. Strengthening conservation awareness at community level is an important part of building coexistence and creating safer landscapes for people and wildlife. #painteddogconservation #humanwildlifecoexistence #ConservationInAction #painteddogs #africanwilddog #wildlifeprotection #communityconservation #hwange #Zimbabwe #protectthepainteddog
Where wildlife and people share the same landscape, every crossing matters.

Dusty of the Umkhonto Pack crosses the highway, navigating a landscape where roads cut through areas shared by painted dogs and people.

Protecting painted dogs means unders
Where wildlife and people share the same landscape, every crossing matters. Dusty of the Umkhonto Pack crosses the highway, navigating a landscape where roads cut through areas shared by painted dogs and people. Protecting painted dogs means understanding and addressing the risks they face beyond protected areas — including the roads that cut through their range. Coexistence requires space, awareness and care for wildlife on the move. Photo Credit: Desmond Musyoka #painteddogconservation #painteddogs #africanwilddog #umkhontopack #wildlifeconservation #WildlifeProtection #humanwildlifecoexistence #conservation #Zimbabwe #savethepainteddogs
Across the Gwayi landscape, our anti-poaching teams remain on patrol, protecting the Umkhonto Pack and other wildlife from threats on the ground.

Every patrol contributes to a safer landscape, with teams working to remove snares and other threats th
Across the Gwayi landscape, our anti-poaching teams remain on patrol, protecting the Umkhonto Pack and other wildlife from threats on the ground. Every patrol contributes to a safer landscape, with teams working to remove snares and other threats that put wildlife at risk. This is the work that helps give painted dogs and the wider wildlife they share this landscape with a better chance to survive. #painteddogconservation #painteddogs #umkhontopack #antipoaching #WildlifeProtection #ConservationInAction #fieldpatrols #zimbabwewildlife
Conservation is ultimately about people.

Painted Dog Conservation joined communities at the RCCL Jane Bubear Heroes Cup Final, using the power of sport as an opportunity to engage young people and communities on the importance of protecting painted
Conservation is ultimately about people. Painted Dog Conservation joined communities at the RCCL Jane Bubear Heroes Cup Final, using the power of sport as an opportunity to engage young people and communities on the importance of protecting painted dogs, wildlife and the natural environment. Beyond the competition on the field, the event provided an opportunity to promote conservation awareness, encourage community participation and create meaningful conversations about the role we all play in protecting Zimbabwe’s wildlife. Conservation outreach extends beyond traditional platforms. Through sport, education and community engagement, we can reach new audiences, strengthen understanding of the threats facing painted dogs and other wildlife, and build greater support for their protection. Congratulations to Foxes FC on winning the RCCL Jane Bubear Heroes Cup, and to all the teams, supporters and organisers who contributed to a successful tournament. #ConservationThroughSport #CommunityEngagement #painteddogconservation #janebubearheroescup #wildlifeconservation
Building initiatives for a sustainable future requires more than ideas — it requires people, partnerships and conversations that turn those ideas into action.

At the 2026 Matabeleland North Provincial Agricultural Show, Painted Dog Conservatio
Building initiatives for a sustainable future requires more than ideas — it requires people, partnerships and conversations that turn those ideas into action. At the 2026 Matabeleland North Provincial Agricultural Show, Painted Dog Conservation joined a diverse range of exhibitors, organisations and stakeholders in bringing their work closer to communities under the theme, “Building Initiatives for a Sustainable Future”. For us, the show provided an opportunity to share the story of painted dogs, raise awareness about the threats they face and engage visitors on the importance of protecting wildlife and the landscapes we share. From conservation education and community engagement to promoting coexistence between people and wildlife, platforms such as these help take conservation beyond protected areas and into the communities that are central to its success. A sustainable future for wildlife is built together — through knowledge, collaboration and shared responsibility. #painteddogconservation #painteddogs #MatabelelandNorth #conservation #sustainablefuture #wildlifeconservation #communityconservation #conservationeducation
Investing in people is investing in the future of painted dog conservation.

As part of the Painted Wolf Conservation Leadership Programme, Painted Dog Conservation was proud to host the latest cohort of emerging African conservation leaders for an i
Investing in people is investing in the future of painted dog conservation. As part of the Painted Wolf Conservation Leadership Programme, Painted Dog Conservation was proud to host the latest cohort of emerging African conservation leaders for an intensive period of practical learning and knowledge exchange in Zimbabwe. Building on their field experience in Zambia's South Luangwa landscape, the cohort joined our teams to gain hands-on experience in wildlife research, ecological monitoring, community engagement and conservation approaches that have helped protect painted dogs for decades. The Painted Wolf Conservation Leadership Programme, a partnership between the Painted Wolf Foundation, the Zambian Carnivore Programme and Painted Dog Conservation, is strengthening conservation across Africa by equipping young conservationists with the practical skills, scientific knowledge and leadership needed to protect painted dogs wherever they occur. By sharing expertise across landscapes and borders, we are helping build a new generation of African conservation leaders committed to securing the future of one of the continent's most endangered species. #painteddogconservation #painteddogs #ConservationLeadership #wildlifeconservation #KnowledgeExchange #africa @paintedwolf_org @zcp_zambia
Building stronger communities to secure a future for wildlife.

Conservation extends beyond protected areas. It is also about creating opportunities for the people who share the landscape with wildlife.

The official opening of the Uncommon Painted D
Building stronger communities to secure a future for wildlife. Conservation extends beyond protected areas. It is also about creating opportunities for the people who share the landscape with wildlife. The official opening of the Uncommon Painted Dog Conservation Innovation Hub in Gwayi marks an important milestone in that journey. Established through a partnership between Uncommon and Painted Dog Conservation, the Hub equips young people with digital, entrepreneurial and innovation skills, helping to create sustainable livelihood opportunities while strengthening community participation in conservation. Communities play a vital role in protecting painted dogs and the ecosystems they depend on. By investing in education, technology and local enterprise, we are helping to build a future where both people and wildlife can thrive. We extend our sincere appreciation to the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland North, Honourable Richard Moyo, for officially commissioning the Innovation Hub, and to Painted Dog Conservation Board Chairman, Senator Jerry Gotora, whose leadership and shared vision continue to strengthen the link between conservation, education and community development. And the Uncommon leadership, all the traditional leaders, local leadership and stakeholders that graced the event. Together, we are investing in people, protecting landscapes, and securing a future for painted dogs. #painteddogconservation #InnovationForConservation #communityconservation #conservationeducation #DigitalSkills #YouthEmpowerment #SustainableLivelihoods #protectingpainteddogs #conservation #Zimbabwe
Reducing vehicle speeds is a critical step towards protecting one of Zimbabwe's most endangered species.

Our painted dog population stands at barely 700 adults across the country, and less than 7000 on the entire Continent of Africa.

Vehicle collis
Reducing vehicle speeds is a critical step towards protecting one of Zimbabwe's most endangered species. Our painted dog population stands at barely 700 adults across the country, and less than 7000 on the entire Continent of Africa. Vehicle collisions remain one of the leading threats to painted dogs, particularly along the Gwayi section of the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Highway, where the Umkhonto Pack have chosen to den this year. Emergency measures were called for by our team, who are monitoring the pack around the clock, as they frequently cross the road on hunting forays and to drink. Our appeals have been heard, and the installation of these temporary rumble strips has begun. This critical road safety intervention that encourages motorists to slow down, reduces the risk of collisions for painted dogs and other wildlife while improving safety for all road users. Painted Dog Conservation sincerely acknowledges the support of the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development in advancing this initiative, as well as the leadership of our Chairman, Hon. Senator Jerry Gotora, whose continued commitment to collaborative conservation is helping deliver practical solutions for wildlife protection. Every driver has a role to play. Slowing down through wildlife crossing areas can make the difference between life and death. #painteddogconservation #RoadSafety #wildlifeconservation #painteddogs #ProtectWildlife #Zimbabwe #ConservationInAction
Every patrol begins long before wildlife is seen. This World Ranger Day, we honour the dedication, resilience and quiet commitment of the rangers who work every day to protect painted dogs, conserve all wildlife and safeguard the landscapes they call home. From monitoring wildlife and removing snares to spending long hours in the field, every step they take helps secure a future where painted dogs and countless other species can continue to thrive. Their work is often unseen, but its impact is lasting. Today, we also remember the rangers around the world who lost their lives in the line of duty, and we stand with those who continue this vital work with courage, professionalism and hope. Because every patrol matters. Happy World Ranger Day. #WorldRangerDay #everypatrolmatters #painteddogconservation #painteddogs #wildlifeconservation #ProtectWildlife #rangers #Zimbabwe
Today, on World Nature Conservation Day, we join the global call to strengthen grassroots action for biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration and the sustainable stewardship of our natural resources.

Protecting nature requires collective act
Today, on World Nature Conservation Day, we join the global call to strengthen grassroots action for biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration and the sustainable stewardship of our natural resources. Protecting nature requires collective action. Every patrol, every partnership, every community engagement and every conservation action contributes to healthier ecosystems and a more secure future for endangered painted dogs and the many species that share these landscapes. As we mark this day, we recognise the dedication of rangers, researchers, communities, partners and supporters whose commitment continues to advance conservation where it matters most—on the ground. Together, we are building resilient landscapes where wildlife and people can thrive. #WorldNatureConservationDay #painteddogconservation #biodiversity #EcosystemRestoration #wildlifeconservation #natureconservation #ConservationInAction #Zimbabwe
Before first light, the work has already begun.

As the first rays of sunlight reach the Gwayi landscape, our research team is already tracking the Umkhonto Pack, monitoring their movements and gathering critical information to better understand and
Before first light, the work has already begun. As the first rays of sunlight reach the Gwayi landscape, our research team is already tracking the Umkhonto Pack, monitoring their movements and gathering critical information to better understand and protect Zimbabwe’s endangered painted dogs. Every signal received helps guide conservation decisions that safeguard one of Zimbabwe’s important painted dog populations. Photo Credit: @carminevisuals #painteddogs #africanwilddogs #WildlifeResearch #conservationscience #protectpainteddogs #ConservationInAction #endangeredspecies #wildlifeconservation #savingspecies
WE'RE IN! 💪🐾

Painted Dog Conservation is proud to be taking part in this year's #WildlifeRangerChallenge!

Climate change, human-wildlife conflict and growing human populations continue to threaten Africa's wildlife. Rangers are on the front line
WE'RE IN! 💪🐾 Painted Dog Conservation is proud to be taking part in this year's #WildlifeRangerChallenge! Climate change, human-wildlife conflict and growing human populations continue to threaten Africa's wildlife. Rangers are on the front line of protecting these precious ecosystems, but increasing pressures and funding gaps are making their work more challenging than ever. Today, our two teams—the all-female Vusile and the all-male MK/Abangane—completed their #WRC quiz, officially kicking off their journey to the main Wildlife Ranger Challenge on 19 September 2026! Over the coming weeks, they'll be training, fundraising and preparing to take on the challenge in support of wildlife rangers and the critical conservation work they do every day. You can help make a difference. Support our teams, spread the word and help us raise vital funds #ForWildlifeRangers: https://wildlife.rangerchallenge.org/campaigns/painted-dog-conservation-2026 @tusk_org @gamerangersassociationofafrica
Umkhonto Pack. Every hunt begins and ends with one of the pack's greatest challenges - crossing a busy highway. Day and night, our Tracking & Monitoring, Anti-Poaching, and Community Outreach teams work together to ensure the Umkhonto pack can move safely between their den site and hunting grounds. From slowing traffic at critical crossing points to scanning for wire snares and monitoring the pack's movements, this is a 24/7 conservation effort. Today's crossing was no different. After a successful hunt across the highway, the pack, including alpha female Isqwaga, made their journey back to the den under the watchful eyes of our dedicated teams. Patience, vigilance and unwavering commitment—doing whatever it takes, every single day, to give one of Africa's most endangered carnivores the best possible chance to survive. Every safe crossing is another step towards securing the future of the Umkhonto pack. Thank you to everyone who supports this work—your generosity makes moments like these possible. #SaveThePaintedDog #UmkhontoPack #PDC #Denning Video Credit: Jealous Mpofu
The transition from pup to yearling is a critical stage in the life of an African painted dog.

As yearlings begin travelling greater distances with their pack, they become increasingly exposed to threats including snares, roads, habitat fragmentatio
The transition from pup to yearling is a critical stage in the life of an African painted dog. As yearlings begin travelling greater distances with their pack, they become increasingly exposed to threats including snares, roads, habitat fragmentation and disease. Reducing these threats is essential to improving survival and securing the future of this Endangered species. Pictured is Nqobile, a yearling from the Acacia Pack's 2025 litter in Mana Pools. Photo credit: Linity Magondo #painteddogconservation #africanpainteddog #EndangeredSpecies #protectthepainteddog #ConservationInAction #manapools #Zimbabwe
Conservation education continues to inspire the next generation of leaders.

Learners from Dopota and Main Camp Primary Schools, both schools participate in Painted Dog Conservation’s education programme, recently took part in the Wildlife and
Conservation education continues to inspire the next generation of leaders. Learners from Dopota and Main Camp Primary Schools, both schools participate in Painted Dog Conservation’s education programme, recently took part in the Wildlife and Environment Zimbabwe (WEZ) Matabeleland Regional Conservation Quiz, held at Petra College Junior in Bulawayo. The competition brought together 16 schools from across the region, with learners demonstrating their knowledge, passion and commitment to wildlife and environmental conservation. We are proud to celebrate Dopota Primary School, who emerged as winners of the regional competition and will now represent the Matabeleland Region at the WEZ National Conservation Quiz competitions in the third term of 2026. Main Camp Primary School also delivered an outstanding performance, finishing in third place. Through the Wilton Nsimango Children’s Bush Camp and our conservation education programme, we continue to create opportunities for young people to engage with conservation, build confidence and develop into future environmental stewards. A special thank you to our partners @gwangoafrica for once again supporting this important initiative through Gwango Tamarillo Estate, which provided accommodation and hospitality for the learners and accompanying team during their time in Bulawayo. This achievement demonstrates the power of collaboration in conservation education — when schools, communities and partners work together, we create opportunities for young conservation champions to thrive. Photo credit: Wilton Nsimango #painteddogconservation #conservationeducation #wildlifeandenvironmentzimbabwe #wez #youthinconservation #ConservationLeadership
Conservation is strengthened by the people behind it.

Protecting painted dogs depends not only on research and field operations, but also on building the skills and knowledge needed to sustain conservation into the future. By sharing practical wildl
Conservation is strengthened by the people behind it. Protecting painted dogs depends not only on research and field operations, but also on building the skills and knowledge needed to sustain conservation into the future. By sharing practical wildlife monitoring techniques with community volunteers, we are strengthening local conservation capacity and reinforcing a collaborative approach to protecting wildlife. Strong conservation is built on partnerships, shared knowledge and people committed to making a difference. #painteddogconservation #capacitybuilding #communityconservation #research #wildlifeconservation #ConservationLeadership
Protecting painted dogs is a commitment that requires dedication, collaboration and people willing to stand up for wildlife every day. Behind every monitored movement, every patrol and every conservation decision are teams working together to protect the Umkhonto pack and safeguard the future of one of Africa’s most endangered carnivores. Conservation happens on the ground — through teamwork, persistence and a shared responsibility to protect wildlife for generations to come. Every signal matters. Every effort counts. #painteddogs #africanwilddog #wildlifeconservation #Zimbabwe #ConservationInAction
Be part of the pack, donate now to help protect painted dogs https://give.wildnet.org/campaign/805190/donate

#painteddogconservation #savethepainted #endangeredspecies #wildlifeconservation
Every sunrise begins with protection.

Before the day begins across the landscape, our anti-poaching teams are already on the ground. Alongside trained detection dogs like Soma, they patrol the landscapes that painted dogs and other wildlife depend o Investing in the next generation of conservationists.

We are grateful to UK based Culford School's Zimbabwe Trip Fundraising Team for their generous donation of iPads to the Wilton Nsimango Children’s Bush Camp.

The iPads will provide young l Human-wildlife coexistence depends on informed communities and strong collaboration.

Painted Dog Conservation joined @_zimparks , the Zimbabwe Republic Police, Forestry Commission, Hwange Rural District Council, Shangano Arts Trust and local traditi Where wildlife and people share the same landscape, every crossing matters.

Dusty of the Umkhonto Pack crosses the highway, navigating a landscape where roads cut through areas shared by painted dogs and people.

Protecting painted dogs means unders Across the Gwayi landscape, our anti-poaching teams remain on patrol, protecting the Umkhonto Pack and other wildlife from threats on the ground.

Every patrol contributes to a safer landscape, with teams working to remove snares and other threats th Conservation is ultimately about people.

Painted Dog Conservation joined communities at the RCCL Jane Bubear Heroes Cup Final, using the power of sport as an opportunity to engage young people and communities on the importance of protecting painted Building initiatives for a sustainable future requires more than ideas — it requires people, partnerships and conversations that turn those ideas into action.

At the 2026 Matabeleland North Provincial Agricultural Show, Painted Dog Conservatio Investing in people is investing in the future of painted dog conservation.

As part of the Painted Wolf Conservation Leadership Programme, Painted Dog Conservation was proud to host the latest cohort of emerging African conservation leaders for an i Building stronger communities to secure a future for wildlife.

Conservation extends beyond protected areas. It is also about creating opportunities for the people who share the landscape with wildlife.

The official opening of the Uncommon Painted D Reducing vehicle speeds is a critical step towards protecting one of Zimbabwe's most endangered species.

Our painted dog population stands at barely 700 adults across the country, and less than 7000 on the entire Continent of Africa.

Vehicle collis
Every patrol begins long before wildlife is seen.

This World Ranger Day, we honour the dedication, resilience and quiet commitment of the rangers who work every day to protect painted dogs, conserve all wildlife and safeguard the landscapes they cal
Today, on World Nature Conservation Day, we join the global call to strengthen grassroots action for biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration and the sustainable stewardship of our natural resources.

Protecting nature requires collective act Before first light, the work has already begun.

As the first rays of sunlight reach the Gwayi landscape, our research team is already tracking the Umkhonto Pack, monitoring their movements and gathering critical information to better understand and WE'RE IN! 💪🐾

Painted Dog Conservation is proud to be taking part in this year's #WildlifeRangerChallenge!

Climate change, human-wildlife conflict and growing human populations continue to threaten Africa's wildlife. Rangers are on the front line
Umkhonto Pack.

Every hunt begins and ends with one of the pack's greatest challenges - crossing a busy highway.

Day and night, our Tracking & Monitoring, Anti-Poaching, and Community Outreach teams work together to ensure the Umkhonto pack can
The transition from pup to yearling is a critical stage in the life of an African painted dog.

As yearlings begin travelling greater distances with their pack, they become increasingly exposed to threats including snares, roads, habitat fragmentatio Conservation education continues to inspire the next generation of leaders.

Learners from Dopota and Main Camp Primary Schools, both schools participate in Painted Dog Conservation’s education programme, recently took part in the Wildlife and Conservation is strengthened by the people behind it.

Protecting painted dogs depends not only on research and field operations, but also on building the skills and knowledge needed to sustain conservation into the future. By sharing practical wildl
Protecting painted dogs is a commitment that requires dedication, collaboration and people willing to stand up for wildlife every day.

Behind every monitored movement, every patrol and every conservation decision are teams working together to protec

Painted Dog Conservation   PVO 13/2005, PO BOX 72   Dete   Zimbabwe   +263772162852   info@painteddog.org

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