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The Australian Alpine Dingo is a rare and fascinating species that's worth learning about. They're found in the mountainous regions of southeastern Australia, specifically in the Australian Alps.
These dingos are smaller than their desert-dwelling cousins, weighing around 15-20 kilograms. Their thick coats help them survive the harsh alpine climate.
Their diet consists mainly of small animals like wallabies, possums, and rabbits, which they hunt using their sharp senses and stealthy movements. They're also known to scavenge for carrion and other food sources.
Despite their adaptability, the Australian Alpine Dingo is a rare and elusive creature, with estimates suggesting only a few hundred individuals remain in the wild.
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Alpine Dingos
Alpine dingos are one of three types of dingos in Australia, and the only type that's endangered.
Their thick coat helps them survive sub-zero temperatures in high altitudes. They also have increased circulation in their feet to keep their paws warm in the snow.
In fact, their unique traits allow them to thrive in their native habitat, making them a vital part of Australia's ecosystem.
Alpine dingos are extremely rare, and conservationists are working hard to save the species.
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Key Points
Australian alpine dingoes are a rare and endangered species, and here are some key points to understand about them:
There have been two discoveries of purebred alpine dingo pups in Victoria in the past two years.
One of these pups, Sooty, was found in an area where dingoes are actively baited, trapped, and shot, suggesting that his parents may have been culled.
Sooty's DNA confirms that he is a purebred alpine dingo, with no evidence of domestic dog ancestry.
A second pup, Wandi, was found in August last year in a small town in Victoria, and was initially thought to be a stray puppy or an orphaned fox pup.
Wandi's DNA test revealed that he is 100% Australian alpine dingo, and he is now being cared for at the Australian Dingo Foundation's sanctuary.
Here are some key statistics about alpine dingoes:
- Only about 40 adult alpine dingoes exist in a breeding program.
- Alpine dingoes are one of three types of dingoes in Australia, and are the only endangered type.
Conservation
Conservation efforts are underway to protect the Australian alpine dingo. The Mt Baw Baw Alpine Dingo Resource Centre is part of a state-wide initiative to preserve this threatened species.
Current protection laws in Australia aren't exactly in the alpine dingo's favour, so the Centre is focusing on education and conservation. The team is dedicated to educating people about the species and preserving them.
Warragul, a pure cream alpine dingo, is a resident at the Centre and has an excellent character for working with schools and children. She's been there since she was a cub and is an absolute sweetheart.
The Centre works closely with the Australian Dingo Foundation and the Dingo Discovery Sanctuary to share knowledge and get feedback. These organizations have a wealth of information about the alpine dingo.
Protecting the alpine dingo is a big task, but the team is up for the challenge. They're passionate about their work and are making a difference in the community.
The Centre's team is led by Taylor Woods, who has a background in volunteering with local RSPCA and wildlife sanctuaries. She's well-prepared to care for the resident dingos.
Conservation efforts like these are crucial for the survival of the alpine dingo.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many alpine dingoes are left?
There are approximately 600-800 dingoes remaining in the wild in Victoria, with a smaller population estimated to be in the Alpine region.
Sources
- https://dingofoundation.org/our-dingoes/
- https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-01-21/pure-alpine-dingos-sibling-cubs-found-victoria-high-country/13077292
- https://blackhawkpetcare.com/au/articles/mt-baw-baw-helping-alpine-dingoes-thrive/
- https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-09-21/pure-bred-alpine-dingo-pup-found/12683972
- https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/lost-puppy-found-australia-actually-rare-dingo-dna-test-shows-180973473/
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