Black-backed Jackal (Canis mesomelas), Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Description

Compared to other members of the genus Canis, the black-backed jackal is a very ancient species, and has changed little since the Pleistocene.It is a monogamous animal, whose young may remain with the family to help raise new generations of pups. The black-backed jackal is not a fussy eater, and will feed on small to medium-sized animals, as well as plant matter and human refuse.