Black-Backed Jackal

Black-backed jackals have shown substantial consistency in their population over the past decades, something that other carnivores like wild dogs would envy. They are classified as 'of least concern' and carry no current threat, nor are there specific populations within South Africa that are endangered. They are widespread across several countries, protecting them from diseases or overhunting. Population densities vary drastically but are at a relatively constant 2 to 3 individuals per square kilometer within the areas of South Africa where they occur.

Over most of the land they occupy, they are found alongside another jackal species, called the side-striped or golden jackal. They are, however, most common within acacia woodland areas or grasslands with some of these same trees scattered, which provides some shade from the scorching sun. Oddly enough, they are carnivorous and sometimes forage for food, such as insects, and are thus not as dependent on the supply of catchable prey as wild dogs, scavenging spotted hyenas, or cheetahs are. When there is prey to be caught, they do, however, take the opportunity and are also regular scavengers alongside vultures and hyenas.

These animals are a species that mates for life. Pairs observed for many years in the Serengeti stayed together for more than two years, with the longest being eight years and separated by death. When this happened, the other would not mate again. They are territorial creatures with average territory sizes encompassing an average of close to 2.5 square kilometers. Older young or offspring of previous seasons play an essential role in the caring and survival of new litter and stay on the same territory until they can find or compete for their permanent piece of land.

Black-backed jackals are one of the three main species of jackal found in Africa, usually patrolling the landscape to scavenge on a kill or find small enough prey to hunt themselves. They follow lions, something their fellow jackal species don't do. They produce a variety of calls through which they convey messages to one another and also howl, like golden jackals and most wolf species. They are very aggressive animals, and an estimated 38% of their interactions with other animals are defensive or aggressive.

During mating, they often discourage current pups or young people from following them by scolding or biting them. When courtship begins, there are three stages, starting with scent marking the area. Next, they show very distinct signs of sexual behavior where females lift their tails to reveal a part of their genitals, and males typically rub against them or wag their tails. Other ritualistic behavior also takes place. Genital licking and few mounts, but no complete copulation occur daily after the courtship. The female finally conceives after this and will give birth to 3 or 4 pups after 60 to 65 days.

Jackals are not immune to predation. Pups are particularly vulnerable and are considered prey to almost any species of eagle, along with sub-adults. Leopards are the primary foes adult jackals fear. Their only defense or survival option is to run and find a decent enough place to shield themselves from danger. Still, eagles can generally be chased away by adults when the survival of their young depend on it. There is a fine line between predator and prey in nature, and jackals are both.