New Guinea singing dogs (Canis Lupis Dingo) are a rare and unique wild dog native to the island of New Guinea. Some have described them as the wildest domesticated dog and others as the most domesticated wild dog. These dogs, sometimes referred to as forest dingoes, inhabit the rugged mountain ranges and dense forests of both Papua New Guinea and Indonesia, primarily living in remote highland areas. They possess a distinctive vocalization characterized by melodic, harmonious sounds that mimic singing, which is where their name originates.

What makes New Guinea singing dogs particularly unique is their combination of physical and behavioral traits. They have a slender build, extremely flexible, and the unique ability to climb trees. Their coat colors can range from black to reddish-brown. Their vocalizations are unlike any other canine species, in which they will adjust tone and pitch during their volcalizations to create a melodic harmony with others. New Guinea singing dogs exhibit behaviors reminiscent of both domestic dogs and wolves, often giving them the name of primitive dogs.

In terms of their role in the ecosystem, New Guinea singing dogs are important as apex predators within their habitat. They help maintain the balance of local wildlife populations by preying on small to medium-sized mammals, birds, and other fauna. Their hunting behaviors contribute to the health of the ecosystem by controlling prey numbers and fostering biodiversity. Conservation efforts are critical for the survival, as their population is dwindling due to habitat loss and the impacts of domestication. This rare dog also provides us a snapshot in time as to what a version of the domesitcated dog was like over 10,000 years ago. Protecting the New Guinea singing dog is essential to preserve these living fossils.

PHOTO EXPERIENCES: MINI-SESSIONS w/ Photographer Anabel DFlux ARE BACK!

• When: Sunday, March 30th

• Time: Slots are 1/2 hour

• Cost: $250 per slot

• Details: Includes

  • 3 fully edited images of your choice,

  • Interaction with two foxes or a fox and wolf

  • Private viewing gallery to select images

PET AND PAINT~ CANID SERIES Spring 2025

We are happy to announce our Pet and Paint Series is back with artist Janice Lau. Spring P&P will be celebrating World Dhole day!

• When: May 24, 2025

• Time: 11:00 am-2PM

• Cost $70 per person (add on 15- minute fox interaction $75 per person)

• Feature Species: Dhole

• Each P&P includes art supplies, step by step instructions, Ambassador animal supervision, refreshments

CREEKSIDE CRITTERS w/ San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy

• When: March 1, 2025

• Where: Del Mar Branch Library

• Time: 11-12

• Cost: Free

• More information: Click Here