Canis mesomelas

Length: 70-100 cm (28-40")

Tail: 30-35 cm (12-14")

Weight: 6.5-13.5 kg (20-30 lb.)

Status: not endangered; still common across its range

Habitat: In East Africa, this species is found on the acacia savannas. They are a common sight on the plains.

Food: Black-backed jackals are omnivorous and eat bulbs, berries and fruits in season as well as invertebrates, small birds, reptiles and small gazelles. In the Serengeti woodland, their main food is the grass rat which can number 32,083 per square kilometer (83,000/square mile). They are frequently found around other predators’ kills and will steal meat from them. They will also scavenge a kill after the larger predators leave it.

Predators: Leopards are fond of dog meat and there is little doubt that many jackals fall victim to this predator. Eagles and snakes prey on pups. Spotted hyenas near the den will be attacked and driven off.