The black-backed jackal is found across eastern and southern Africa, recognizable by the dark saddle of fur running down its back. Though slight in build, it’s a skilled hunter and opportunistic scavenger, just as likely to take down rodents or birds as it is to sneak a bite from a lion kill. These jackals are often seen in mated pairs, working together with surprising coordination to hunt or defend their territory. They’re also highly vocal, communicating with yips, howls, and wails that carry across the savanna. I was alone with a guide in Botswana’s Kalahari Game Reserve, so able to get out of the vehicle to crouch in the tall grass to photograph this jackal at sunset. After a few quick sniffs of the air, the jackal moved on, searching for an early evening snack. Nikon D300 with Nikkor 200-400mm lens (at 400mm) ISO 800, f/4 at 1/400th of a second.
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The black-backed jackal is found across eastern and southern Africa, recognizable by the dark saddle of fur running down its back. Though slight in build, it’s a skilled hunter and opportunistic scavenger, just as likely to take down rodents or birds as it is to sneak a bite from a lion kill. These jackals are often seen in mated pairs, working together with surprising coordination to hunt or defend their territory. They’re also highly vocal, communicating with yips, howls, and wails that carry across the savanna. I was alone with a guide in Botswana’s Kalahari Game Reserve, so able to get out of the vehicle to crouch in the tall grass to photograph this jackal at sunset. After a few quick sniffs of the air, the jackal moved on, searching for an early evening snack. Nikon D300 with Nikkor 200-400mm lens (at 400mm) ISO 800, f/4 at 1/400th of a second.
You should be happy he didn’t make YOU the snack!
Yes!
Nah, they’re scrappy little guys. Smaller than coyotes.