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- New Guinea Singing Dog
New Guinea Singing Dog
Class: Mammalia
Order: Carnivora
Family: Canidae
Taxonomic Name: Canis lupus hallstromi
Range: The island of New Guinea
Habitat: High elevation forests
Physical Characteristics: Average height is 17 inches at the shoulder. Average weight is 25 pounds. Their coat color is a tan or golden red with white markings on the chin, belly and feet and a black muzzle. Although similar in appearance to the dingo, they are smaller and have wider cheekbones. They have a long bushy tail that is generally carried in an arch over the back.
Longevity: Average is unknown but the record is 20 years for a male in captivity.
Social Structure: They have not been studied in the wild so their social structure is unknown. Studies of captive animals indicate they are probably not pack animals. This is based upon observations of high levels of aggression among mature individuals of the same sex. They may form at least temporary family groups as males have been observed providing parental care such as regurgitation of food for their puppies.
Active Time: Again, unknown for sure, but the presence of a greater reflective surface in the eye, similar to a cat, allows for better nighttime vision. In captivity, they are active in the daytime when given enough stimulation.
Diet: Wild - Small to medium sized marsupials, rodents, birds and some fruits.
Zoo - Dry dog food, canine meat and canned dog food.
Zoo - Dry dog food, canine meat and canned dog food.
Behavior: They have a large repertoire of vocalizations including a special type of howl that includes extreme frequency modulation generally not heard in other canid howls. Although sometimes said to be barkless, they may bark when alarmed.
Reproduction: They have only one heat per year in August. If a female does not become pregnant, she will come into estrus again in 8-12 weeks, a pattern not recorded in other canids. Gestation lasts 63 days and a litter consists of 4-6 pups. Pups become independent at 4 months and females reach reproductive age at 2 years of age.
Interesting Facts:
- First described by scientists in the mid-1950's.
- Considered the most primitive "domestic dog", brought to New Guinea by early human immigrants from southeast Asia.
- Never observed to perform the otherwise universal dog/wolf play bow where the rump is held high - singing dogs keep their entire body low during play initiation.