Dogs settling well!

Dudley Zoo and Castle has welcomed back painted dogs after an almost five-year absence.

The pair of five-year-old brothers arrived from Switzerland earlier this month and are making themselves at home in their new habitat.

Two females will hopefully be joining them in the coming weeks to form our first breeding pack.

Zoo Curator, Richard Brown, said: “We’re really excited for painted dogs to return to the zoo, as they’ve always been a popular species with visitors.  

“The boys have settled well and both seem very relaxed. It’s wonderful to watch them exploring their new surroundings.”

The large new habitat has taken 11 months to develop, with staff and contractors transforming the former reindeer and peccary paddocks.

The African-themed space features sand pits, pools and enrichment zip lines for the dogs to explore, while multiple viewing areas around the paddock provide visitors with plenty of options to spot them.

Richard added: “As part of our conservation work with the species, we’re also pleased to work with Painted Dog Conservation out in Zimbabwe, who work to protect and rehabilitate painted dogs in the wild.

“We’ve pledged to financially support them with £5,000 a year for the foreseeable future.”