Facts about the Black-Backed Jackals -- Canis mesomelass:

A summary of most interesting statistics (size, gestation...), amazing environmental adaptations & fascinating facts about social habits, etc.

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)
Pilanesberg National Park (South Africa)
Kalahari Gemsbok National Park
Vaalbos National Park
Karoo National Park
Golden Gate Highlands National Park
Augrabies Falls National Park
Addo Elephant National Park

More amazing facts on Black-Backed Jackals
Royalty free images gallery with photographs of Black-Backed Jackals