Animals I Love – The Black Backed Jackal

Exploring the Black - Backed Jackal

In the heart of Africa's untamed wilderness, a creature of legend and lore roams the vast landscapes - the Black - Backed Jackal, a captivating enigma woven into the rich tapestry of African folklore and natural history.

Join us as we embark on a journey to uncover the mysteries of this canine, discover the myths that have shrouded its existence, and delve into the remarkable life of this captivating creature.

The Cunning Jackal and the Betrayed Lion

In the ancestral tales of the indigenous Khoikhoi people, the Black - Backed Jackal shares the stage with the mighty Lion, but not as a subordinate. These cunning creatures, often outsmarting their feline companions, are celebrated for their intelligence and resourcefulness.

The stories depict a Jackal that can outwit the king of the savanna, painting a picture of a clever, wily protagonist. One intriguing legend even suggests that the Black - Backed Jackal's signature dark saddle came into being when it boldly offered to carry the sun on its back, a testament to its audacity.

Family Values and Lifelong Bonds

These creatures, unlike their more solitary relatives, form monogamous, life - long bonds. A rarity in the animal kingdom, Black - Backed Jackal couples embark on a shared journey, dedicating their lives to one another and their offspring.

Remarkably, the young from one year's litter often serve as 'helpers,' delaying their own breeding ambitions to assist in raising the next generation, an act that plays a pivotal role in pup survival, unlike any other jackal species.

The Eerie Chorus of the Night

Black - Backed Jackals are known for their spine-tingling calls that pierce the night's silence. In the early evening, they engage in a haunting exchange of wailing cries, building an otherworldly chorus.

These calls not only serve as a means of communication within their packs but also as a fascinating alarm system. When tailing a predator, the jackal's repeated yapping can often betray an irritated Lion or a watchful Leopard.

The Ageless Canine

Fossil records tell an astonishing tale of the Black - Backed Jackal. This species, among the oldest known dog species, has remained largely unchanged since the Pleistocene epoch, spanning up to 2.5 million years.

Their unaltered appearance throughout the ages is a testament to their ability to adapt and thrive in the African wilderness.

Jackals and Rabies

Despite their intriguing qualities, Black - Backed Jackals bear a darker aspect. They are among the most significant vectors of rabies in Southern Africa, with epidemics that appear in cyclic intervals.

Their role in disease transmission adds a layer of complexity to their existence, highlighting the interconnectedness of nature's delicate balance.

Jackals as Nocturnal Predators

Jackals are versatile hunters, equipped to prowl both day and night. Their omnivorous nature means that they scavenge for food, from the remnants of kills left by other predators to smaller mammals they capture themselves.

These resourceful creatures even challenge formidable predators such as Cheetahs for their prey. They are definitely not scared as personal experience showed me how they chase off vultures in large numbers to get to the prized carrion of leftover kills.

Jackal's Daytime Hideaway

In the daytime, they retreat into the brush or down under into their densites, remaining hidden from the scorching African sun. While they often hunt alone or in pairs, larger groups may congregate around carcasses.

The sound of larger carnivores at a kill also draws them, as they anticipate the opportunity to scavenge a meal.

The Complex World of Jackal Territories

Just like their more illustrious relatives, the Lion, Jackals are territorial creatures. They stake out specific regions and mark them with their telltale scent, warning other jackals to stay away.

When their territory is breached, they can become fiercely territorial and defend their domain vigorously.

Scavengers and Opportunists

Jackals are opportunistic feeders. Their diet spans from the remains of animals abandoned by other predators to the animals they capture themselves, including rodents, birds, fruits, and insects.

Their adaptability in securing sustenance is a testament to their resourcefulness. Areas with a lot of rain promise a lot of termite irruptions which in return brings food as Jackals make good use of termite protein during rainy seasons.

Conclusion

Beyond its folklore, it embodies the intricate web of life in the African wilderness, balancing intelligence, family bonds, and survival instincts in a harsh and beautiful environment.

The myths may paint them as cunning tricksters, but the reality of these creatures is just as mesmerizing, revealing a world where beauty and mystery merge in perfect harmony.

About The Author

Kyle Grobler is a passionate environmentalist and esteemed field guide from Potchefstroom. With an unparalleled love for nature, he boasts a vast collection of over 40,000 photos, illustrating his particular affinity for birds.

Known by many as the embodiment of a true bushman, Kyle has ventured through various South African game reserves and frequently explores the Vaal River's hidden treasures. As a new contributor to the Potch Gazette's environmental page, readers can anticipate immersive tales of Potchefstroom's natural wonders through Kyle's expert lens.

To see more from Kyle and his bush experiences you can also view his Youtube Channel here: Kyle Grobler Photography

More Animal Stories

For more articles about animals you can click on the links below, there are so many great animals living amoungst us to discover and learn about as they play a major role in nature as we see it today.

Cape Platanna: Click Here

Elephant: Click Here

Black Rhino: Click Here

Cheetah: Click Here

Lion: Click Here

Leopard: Click Here

Cape Buffalo: Click Here

Southern White Rhino: Click Here

Black Rhino: Click Here

African Painted Dog: Click Here

Scrub Hare: Click Here

World Reptile Day 2023: Click Here