North Lakhimpur: An Asiatic dhole, an endangered wild dog species, was recently spotted in Dhakuakhana co-district of Assam’s Lakhimpur after the Forest Department launched a search operation to identify a predator responsible for livestock killings in the area.
For over a week, villagers of No. 1 Bor Potiya in Dhakuakhana sub-division reported repeated attacks on their livestock. Around 27 goats were killed within seven days, prompting forest officials to set up trap cameras in different locations.
Initially suspected to be the work of leopards or wild cats, the predator was later confirmed through camera footage as an Asiatic dhole (Cuon alpinus), according to district forest officials.
The Asiatic dhole is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, with fewer than 2,500 mature individuals estimated worldwide. The species is mainly found across South, East and Southeast Asia. It was last recorded in the Kaziranga, Karbi Anglong Landscape in July 2025 by the Wildlife Institute of India, after being considered locally extinct for nearly 35 years.
Forest officials believe the dhole spotted in Dhakuakhana may have strayed from its pack in Kaziranga, crossing the Brahmaputra River to reach the north bank.
The Asiatic dhole is a social animal that typically lives in packs of more than two dozen members. Authorities are monitoring the area and advising residents to remain alert while efforts continue to prevent further livestock loss.