African wild dogs in botswana’s okavango delta surprise scientists by eating fruit for the first time

In a groundbreaking discovery that challenges what scientists know about carnivorous behavior, researchers have documented African wild dogs eating fruit in Botswana’s Okavango Delta—the first time this behavior has ever been recorded in the species.

The “hyper-carnivorous” wild dogs were observed picking up and swallowing jackalberries from African ebony trees, a surprising dietary shift for animals whose razor-sharp teeth are specifically adapted for tearing flesh and crushing bone. During July and August 2022, all 11 adult members of a wild dog pack were seen consuming the fruit daily, according to research published in Canid Biology & Conservation.

Led by researcher Megan Claase from Wild Entrust’s Botswana Predator Conservation program, the study revealed fascinating patterns in this newfound behavior. The dogs typically ate fruit near their den before heading out to hunt, suggesting they may have been “fueling up” for energy-intensive activities. Particularly intriguing was the observation that older, lower-ranking pack members consumed fruit throughout the day—likely supplementing their nutrition when they had limited access to meat kills due to pack hierarchy.

This discovery has significant implications beyond dietary curiosity. Since African wild dogs cooperatively raise pups and regurgitate food for them at the den, young dogs would likely be exposed to this novel food source early in life. The finding opens new questions about carnivore adaptability and dietary flexibility in one of Africa’s most endangered predators, suggesting these remarkable animals may be more behaviorally adaptable than previously understood.