Warrigal

A warrigal is a colloquial term used in Australia to refer to a wild dog. While often used interchangeably with 'dingo', the term 'warrigal' can also encompass feral domestic dogs and their hybrids. These animals are native to Australia, though their precise origins and introduction into the wild are debated among scientists. Warrigals are opportunistic predators and scavengers, playing a role in the Australian ecosystem.

Warrigals are typically medium to large canids, with a lean build and a coat that can vary in color, commonly ranging from sandy yellow to reddish-brown, often with lighter markings on the muzzle and tail tip. They are known for their adaptability, inhabiting a wide range of environments across the continent, from arid deserts to forests and coastal areas. Their diet consists of native fauna such as kangaroos, wallabies, and reptiles, as well as introduced species and carrion.

The presence of warrigals, particularly those with a significant proportion of domestic dog ancestry, is a concern for livestock farmers due to predation on sheep and cattle. This has led to various management strategies being implemented across Australia, including fencing, trapping, and baiting programs. Conservation efforts are also in place for the pure dingo population, which is genetically distinct from warrigal populations with high domestic dog content.