Jackals are wild canines that roam deserts, grasslands, and forests across Africa, Asia, and parts of Europe. These clever creatures often get overlooked in favor of their bigger relatives like wolves and foxes, but they have their own fascinating stories to tell. From their surprising family bonds to their clever hunting tactics, jackals are full of surprises that might just change how you see these misunderstood animals.
The information provided is for educational purposes and based on current wildlife research. Always respect wild animals from a safe distance.
1. Jackals Are Devoted Partners For Life
Unlike many wild animals that switch mates regularly, jackals form strong pair bonds that last their entire lives. Both parents work together to raise their pups, sharing duties like hunting, feeding, and protecting the den.
This teamwork makes jackal families incredibly successful. The male often guards the territory while the female nurses the young, creating a balanced partnership that helps their offspring survive in harsh environments.
2. They Have An Incredibly Varied Diet
Jackals are not picky eaters at all. Their menu includes everything from insects and rodents to fruits, birds, and even leftover carcasses from larger predators.
Being omnivores gives them a survival advantage in changing environments. When prey is scarce, they simply switch to eating berries, grass, or whatever else nature provides, making them incredibly adaptable creatures in the wild.
3. Ancient Egyptians Considered Them Sacred
The ancient Egyptians held jackals in high regard, associating them with Anubis, the god of mummification and the afterlife. Anubis was depicted with a jackal head because these animals were often seen near cemeteries.
This connection made jackals symbols of protection for the dead. Their presence around burial sites likely inspired stories about them guiding souls to the next world.
4. Jackal Pups Get Help From Older Siblings
When new pups are born, older siblings from previous litters often stick around to help raise them. These helpers assist with feeding, babysitting, and teaching survival skills to the younger generation.
Scientists believe this behavior strengthens family bonds and improves pup survival rates. The helpers also gain valuable parenting experience before starting their own families, creating a win situation for everyone involved.
5. Their Howls Serve As Communication Networks
Jackals are incredibly vocal animals with a wide range of sounds including howls, yips, and barks. Each call serves a specific purpose, from marking territory to coordinating hunts with family members.
Their haunting howls can travel long distances across open landscapes. Families use these calls to stay connected when spread out while hunting, essentially creating a natural communication system that keeps the pack working together efficiently.
6. They Can Outsmart Much Larger Predators
Despite their small size, jackals are incredibly cunning when it comes to stealing food from bigger carnivores. They use distraction techniques, with one jackal drawing attention while another sneaks in to grab meat.
This intelligence helps them survive in competitive environments. Jackals have been observed successfully snatching meals from cheetahs, hyenas, and even lions by using speed, teamwork, and strategic thinking.
7. There Are Three Main Species Of Jackals
Scientists recognize three primary jackal species: the golden jackal, the black backed jackal, and the side striped jackal. Each species has adapted to different habitats across Africa, Asia, and southeastern Europe.
Golden jackals are the most widespread, while black backed jackals sport distinctive dark saddles on their backs. Side striped jackals prefer wetter environments and have faint stripes along their sides, making each species uniquely suited to its home.
8. Jackals Can Run At Impressive Speeds
When chasing prey or escaping danger, jackals can reach speeds of up to 65 kilometres per hour. Their lean, muscular bodies and long legs make them built for endurance running across varied terrain.
This speed is essential for their survival. Jackals need to catch quick rodents, escape from larger predators, and cover vast territories while searching for food, making their athletic abilities crucial to their daily lives.
