The black-backed jackal (Canis mesomelas) is a small African canid native to eastern and southern Africa. Although it looks like wolf and fox, but is neither a wolf nor a fox. While they share some similarities with both wolves and foxes, black-backed jackals are a distinct species . It gets its name from the striking black patch that runs down its back, contrasting with its sandy to reddish-brown fur on the sides and belly.
These jackals measure about 38-48 centimeters (15-19 inches) at the shoulder and weigh 6-14 kilograms (13-31 pounds). They are primarily nocturnal and are adaptable, inhabiting various environments, including grasslands, savannas, and even urban areas.
Black-backed jackals are opportunistic omnivores, feeding on small mammals, birds, insects, carrion, fruits, and plants. They form family groups with a monogamous breeding pair and their offspring, displaying territorial behavior.
These jackals play a vital role in their ecosystems as scavengers, helping maintain ecological balance by cleaning up carrion. This is why we can barely see those animal alone but can frequently find them near the large predators such as cheetah and leopards.
黑背豺（Canis mesomelas）是一种小型非洲犬科动物，原产于非洲东部和南部。 虽然它看起来像狐狸和狼，但既不是狐狸也不是狼。 虽然黑背豺与狐狸和狼有一些相似之处，但它们是一个独特的物种。 它的名字来源于它背部的引人注目的黑色斑点，与侧面和腹部的沙色到红棕色的皮毛形成鲜明对比。
这些豺的肩高约为 38-48 厘米（15-19 英寸），重量为 6-14 公斤（13-31 磅）。 它们主要是夜间活动，适应性强，栖息在各种环境中，包括草原、稀树草原，甚至城区。
黑背豺是机会主义杂食动物，以小型哺乳动物、鸟类、昆虫、腐肉、水果和植物为食。 它们实行一夫一妻制繁殖后代，与后代组成家庭群体，在自己的领地里活动。
这些豺狼通过清理腐肉来帮助维持生态平衡，作为食腐动物在生态系统中发挥着至关重要的作用。 这就是为什么我们很难单独看到这些动物，但经常可以在猎豹和豹子等大型掠食者附近找到它们。
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