JACKAL, BLACK BACKED

A Black backed Jackal (Canis mesomelas mesomelas) is a medium-sized carnivorous mammal belonging to the dog family, which also includes wolves, dogs, and foxes. Jackals are known for their slender bodies, pointed ears, and bushy tails. They are typically found in various habitats, including savannahs, deserts, and grasslands, across Africa, Asia, and south-eastern Europe. Jackals are opportunistic omnivores, feeding on a diverse diet of small mammals, birds, insects, fruits, and carrion. They are often solitary or form small family groups and are known for their adaptability and cunning behaviour.

Fact Sheet 

Numbers: Common but shy.

Weight: 5.5 – 11.4 kg (12 – 25lb)

Young: 1 – 6 pups.

Diet: They are opportunistic omnivores, feeding on small mammals, birds, insects, and carrion.

Habits: Black-backed Jackals are primarily nocturnal but can also be active during dawn and dusk. Highly adaptable, they live in pairs or small family groups and are territorial, marking their areas with scent. Jackals are known for their cunning nature, often scavenging alongside larger predators, and they are agile hunters with keen senses.