It's a dog's life - meet Dudley Zoo's latest attractions

The attraction has welcomed a pair of rare African painted dogs, after an absence of almost five years.

The two five-year-old brothers are settling into their new purposed built habitat next to the castle, after arriving from Switzerland just over a week ago. 

And the endangered species, with their distinctive ears that turn in the direction of approaching sounds, are already proving a bit hit with visitors. 

The pair, who have yet to be named, are expected to be joined by two females in the coming weeks, to form the attraction's first breeding pack.

Zoo Curator, Richard Brown, said: “We’re really excited for painted dogs to return to the zoo, as they’ve always been a popular species with visitors. 

“The boys have settled well and both seem very relaxed. It’s wonderful to watch them exploring their new surroundings.”

The large new habitat has taken 11 months to develop, with staff and contractors transforming the former reindeer and peccary paddocks.

The African-themed space features sandy areas, pools and enrichment features for the dogs, while multiple viewing areas around the paddock provide visitors with plenty of options to spot them.

Richard added: “As part of our conservation work with the species, we’re also pleased to work with Painted Dog Conservation out in Zimbabwe, who work to protect and rehabilitate painted dogs in the wild.

“We’ve pledged to financially support them with £5,000 a year for the foreseeable future.”