THE PAINTED WOLF PROJECT
The African Painted Wolf (*Lycaon pictus*), often referred to as the “Wild Dog,” is neither wolf nor dog, belonging to its own distinct genus. With a population of just 6,500, it is Africa’s most critically endangered large carnivore. While not hunted for skins or meat, human activities pose significant threats—these animals are frequently caught in snares, struck by vehicles, or affected by diseases such as canine distemper and rabies. Habitat loss and fragmentation further contribute to their decline. With their striking coat patterns, large ears, and amber eyes, they are favorites among wildlife photographers. Their distinctive barks and yips reflect a complex social structure, essential for communication within their tight-knit packs. Once roaming across sub-Saharan Africa, their range has drastically diminished, with Zambia being one of their last strongholds.
This fall, The Human-Wildlife Project will launch its first initiative in Zambia’s Lower Zambezi region—a unique community-led effort to protect this remarkable species and strengthen local conservation efforts.
With the successful completion of our Seed Project, we are now shifting our focus to the Painted Wolf Project, a unique initiative in the Lower Zambezi region. This area faces significant challenges with human-wildlife conflict and limited job opportunities. For those struggling most, survival often means turning to bushmeat poaching to feed their families or earn a small income.
Over the past year, we’ve been engaging with valued members of these communities, and in November, we held in-depth discussions about launching a program to make a meaningful difference. This initiative aims to hire 10 individuals—both men and women—who are currently struggling the most and have, in the past, felt forced to participate in illegal activities simply to survive. These individuals have expressed that such actions are not culturally significant to them; they are acts of survival, not choice.
Through the Painted Wolf Project, we will offer these individuals full-time employment as scouts, a vital role similar to rangers. They will receive training and will be tasked with removing snares, monitoring the area, and providing critical on-the-ground insights. This initiative will not only create jobs but also help protect wildlife and foster stronger connections between communities and conservation efforts.
We aim to launch this impactful program by fall 2025. To learn more about how you can help or to make a donation to this initiative, please don’t hesitate to reach out!
