WINSTON, Ore. — The Wildlife Safari in Winston reports its annual benefit dinner raised over $200,000 – funding the Safari says will be instrumental in bringing their vision for a new African Painted Dog exhibit to life.
The Safari says construction has already begun on the new habitat located in the lion loop of the park’s drive-through area.
African painted dogs, also known as African wild dogs, are among the most endangered carnivores in Africa, according to the Safari. With fewer than 1,500 mature individuals remaining in the wild, these social animals live in packs and are known for their extraordinary teamwork while hunting. Their striking, patchy coats are unique to each individual, helping them blend into their environment, also meaning no two painted dogs look the same.
“With Painted Dogs being one of the world’s most endangered mammals, the Wildlife Safari carnivore team is very excited for their arrival, ” says Sarah Huse, Carnivore Supervisor at Wildlife Safari. “We can’t wait for the dogs to thrive here and guests to be able to enjoy seeing them in the drive-through. Our goal is to have a breeding family group to help increase the species numbers and genetics like we have so successfully been doing with cheetahs and the critically endangered Sumatran tigers. The dogs have very unique vocalizations that guests can be ready to hear along with our lion roaring out in the lion loop.”
To start their “Safari Pack,” the zoo plans to welcome a family of three African painted dogs to Canine Country.
This new addition not only enriches our park but also supports the conservation efforts for these incredible animals. As construction progresses, we invite guests to see the exciting developments firsthand during their drive-through adventure.
This project is set for completion by the summer of 2025, and we can’t wait to welcome these remarkable animals to their new home.
We deeply appreciate the generosity of everyone who made this possible, and we look forward to sharing this new experience with the community!
For more information, visit the Wildlife Safari’s website.
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