Jackal

There are three species of jackals: black-backed (seen above), golden, and side-striped. All call the continent of Africa their home.

Jackals are about the size of a German Shepherd and often hunt alone. Although some jackals form packs to make hunting easier.

Jackals mate for life and both parents care for their pups. The mother will switch den sites every two weeks in order to keep her litter safe from predators.

These canines are resourceful, tough, and can live in harsh environments with little water. They are omnivores and will eat almost anything, but often follow larger predators, like lions, so they can scavenge any leftovers after a kill.

Because of this, jackals are commonly seen at the site of a death which is why the ancient Egyptians revered the jackal as their god of the dead, Anubis.