Perhaps you have already heard that Waldhunde are social beings. They do not like to be alone. The Waldhunde in Stuttgart’s Wilhelma are a captivating sight. These animals offer a glimpse into a unique world.
Waldhunde originate from the northern part of South America. They live in forests and humid savannas. Water nearby is essential for them. These pack animals look like a mix of different species. They have the body of a badger and the face of a marten or young bear.
Did you know that Waldhunde have webbed feet? They are excellent swimmers and divers. This helps them when hunting together. They drive their prey into the water. Here the Waldhunde have a clear advantage.
These animals are potentially endangered. Their habitat is shrinking more and more. It is estimated that only 15,000 Waldhunde remain in South America.
Family is very important for the Waldhunde. The males are caring fathers. They bring food to the mother and young animals. The zookeepers of Wilhelma take over this task of course.
In March 2014 Timido was born in Wilhelma. He and his twin brother Amaru lived together. Unfortunately Amaru died a few weeks ago. But Timido is no longer alone. Qamilla is the name of the Waldhunddame from Belgium. She keeps Timido company in the Stuttgart Zoological-Botanical Garden.
Zoologist Ulrike Rademacher said the two were immediately very fond of each other. They even seek physical contact when running. The zookeepers are happy that the socialization is working so well.
Whether Timido and Qamilla will still provide offspring remains to be seen. But that is secondary. The main thing was that our male is no longer alone.