Canis aureus

Length: 65-105 cm (26-41")

Tail: 18-27 cm (7-11")

Weight: 6-15 kg (13-33 lb.)

Status: not endangered; still common across its range

Habitat: dry open country up to an altitude of 3 000 meters (9,843 feet)

Role: carnivore

Food: Golden jackals are omnivorous and will eat a variety of foods including invertebrates, birds, small reptiles and mammals up to the size of gazelles. They also eat bulbs, berries and fruits in season. They will also scavenge carrion.

Predators: Leopards, lions and spotted hyenas will sometimes catch and eat a jackal. Large eagles and snakes will prey on pups.