Black-Backed Jackal - Canis mesomelass:Named for the broad, dark saddle on the upper body, which extends from the neck to the base of the tail, the Black-Backed Jackal is a nocturnal scavenger, although they also kill for themselves and prey on small mammals and birds. The black-backed jackal is known for its habit of trailing lions and other carnivores when a kill is made: up to 10 jackals will keep a distance until the big predators have had their fill from the carcass. They also dine on newborn buck, springhares, mongooses, mice, rats, lizards and insects. The black-backed jackal is known as a wary and cunning animal. They are one of the few mammalian species with a long term pair bond. From 5 to 7 young are born, in holes in the ground, which are very often disused aardvark burrows adjusted to suit their needs. SIZE: Shoulder height 38 cm, mass (m) 8 kg, (f) 7 kg. COLOUR: The long bushy tail is mostly blackish and the head, flanks and legs are a reddish-brown. Throat, chest and belly whitish. RUNNING SPEED: 55 km/ hr POTENTIAL LONGEVITY: 10 years GESTATION PERIOD: 2 months MOST LIKE: The Side-Striped Jackal, but has longer ears and sharper muzzle. The side-striped jackal is never reddish and lacks the black saddle. HABITAT: A wide range of habitats, particularly drier areas and open terrain. They have a wide habitat tolerance, and are independant of water, which may only be available seasonally, but they will drink when water is available. WHERE FOUND:
Kruger National Park South Africa - Eco Travel Guides - Wildlife Guides: Travel Guides: -:- Activities & Interests -:- Regions & Areas -:- Routes -:- Maps -:- Wildlife: -:- Vertebrates: -:- Amphibians -:- Birds -:- Fish -:- Mammals -:- Reptiles -:- |