In the interior of the Carstensz Mountains, Papua, locals often talk about the unusual “Dingo dog” of a wild dog, also called the New Guinea Sin Dog. Recent discoveries and research show that these creatures are more than just myths.
Origin and Invention
The Australian Dingo is said to be comparable to the New Guinea Song Dog (NGSD), which is also known as the “singing dog” in its native language. Dingos inhabit the highlands of Papua New Guinea. Using video traps and direct observations, the researchers first recorded the presence of this species in the Grasberg area, Tembagapura, Mimika Regency, Papua in 2016. In 2018, Cendrawasih University, in collaboration with the New Guinea Highland Wild Dog Foundation (NGHWDF) and other organizations, conducted an additional study. The results of the study show that this species has behavioral and genetic similarities with other mountain wild dogs, such as dingoes.
Physical Characteristics
This “singing dog” is special in some way. Male dogs are about 45 cm tall, while female dogs are about 37 cm tall, so their bodies are smaller than mountain wild dogs in general. In addition, its body length is shorter than that of a typical wild dog. Its thicker coat is thought to be an adaptation to cold temperatures at high altitudes. This dog has the characteristic pointed ears that stand upright. The term “Singing Dog” comes from the fact that they howl more often than bark, with tones that vary from low to high.
Links to Local Cultures and Communities
In some places, the Moni people refer to this animal as “Dingo”. According to local legends or beliefs, these animals have cultural and spiritual significance. In addition, the study noted that the local community considers these animals to be nature-friendly creatures and do not attack humans based on observations.
Protecting them means preserving Papua’s biodiversity, while also respecting local cultural heritage. When we hear the name “Carstensz”, don’t just think of the mountain—remember this incredible creature, which sits among the clouds and high snow on the peaks of Papua.