Extremely rare ‘ghost dog’ captured on camera in Amazon rainforest

EnvironmentPets
16 Jun 2026 • 7:07 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Extremely rare ‘ghost dog’ captured on camera in Amazon rainforest

  • A new study reveals the elusive short-eared dog, a mysterious Amazonian canid, is thriving in the forests of Bolivia and Peru, contrary to previous fears of its rarity.
  • Previously considered an "almost mythical beast" due to its secretive nature and few direct sightings, the species has now been extensively documented.
  • Researchers used intensive camera traps over 25 years, collecting over 594 photographs, to gain fresh insights into the enigmatic predator's life.
  • The study found the short-eared dog is more abundant than anticipated, with a density of 15 individuals per 100 square kilometres, and is primarily active during the day.
  • Conservation efforts for the species depend significantly on the creation and effective management of protected Amazonian forest areas and the sustainable management of Indigenous territories.

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