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Nicholas Dyer

Low down, straight-backed and focused, the painted wolves go into stealth mode as they close in on their prey.

After stalking their prey the painted wolves launch their attack. While the painted wolves are Africa’s most efficient predator, not all chases result in a kill and often their prey escape.

After about a month the painted wolf puppies’ ears transform from floppy flaps to their signature Mickey Mouse lugs.

Painted wolves are often attacked by hyenas who attempt to kill their pups and steal their prey. The wolves always mount an impressive defence, even though hyenas are much larger.

A pair of painted wolf pups play a macabre game of tag with the head of a baboon—the remains of their breakfast. This photo was 'highly commended' in the 2018 Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards.