Black-Backed Jackals
We’re out on a safari drive in the Masai Mara in Kenya. Our guide and driver, Gladys, is an expert at spotting the wildlife, communicating with her fellow guides about the wildlife nearby, and navigating this harsh terrain. She soon spots some Black-Backed Jackals.

They are very wary dogs, with huge hairy erect ears and exceptionally pointed features.
They are loyal, family orientated, monogamous animals. The youngsters will often remain with their parents to help them raise the next litter of pups.
The Black-Backed Jackal has entered local folklore as a cunning trickster.

Can you see why?

The reality is that they trail large predators to scavenge leftover food. After all, why hunt when you can let a lion do it for you? They adapt very quickly to changing food sources and the presence of humans. They are quiet, sensitive and often nocturnal.
I love them already.
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