North African Golden Jackal by Ghirin

The golden jackal (Canis aureus) is widespread throughout northern Africa, central and southern Asia, and southern Europe. They prefer the more dry and arid portions of their ranges. The African golden jackal (Canis aureus algirensis) ranges across the northern portion of Africa and is the jackal represented by the Egyptian god Anubis.

Golden jackals live in small family groups composed of a mated pair and their offspring. Grown pups from previous years often stay with their parents for a time, helping to raise the younger members of the family. This extra help improves the survival rate of offspring.

The jackals dig dens or use ones made by other animals to serve as shelters for the family. Hunting usually takes place at night, but golden jackals are active during daylight hours in areas far from human activity. They prey on small mammals, birds, insects, and small reptiles. They will also feed on carrion and fruits.

References:

http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/accounts/canis/c._aureus$narrative.html

http://www.lioncrusher.com

http://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/wildfacts/factfiles/130.shtml

Walker’s Mammals of the World, Nowak, 1999.

Created by Ghirin 2003

Updated 2010-11-04

Just to save space with less in zip and smaller image.

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