The black-backed jackal (Canis mesomelas) is a small African canid native to eastern and southern Africa. Although it resembles both wolves and foxes, it is neither, belonging to a distinct species. Its name comes from the striking black patch that runs along its back, in contrast to its sandy to reddish-brown fur on the sides and belly.
These jackals stand about 38-48 centimeters (15-19 inches) tall at the shoulder and weigh between 6-14 kilograms (13-31 pounds). Primarily nocturnal, they are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and even urban areas.
As opportunistic omnivores, black-backed jackals feed on small mammals, birds, insects, carrion, fruits, and plants. They live in family groups led by a monogamous breeding pair, often displaying territorial behavior to protect their range.
These jackals play a crucial ecological role as scavengers, helping to maintain balance by cleaning up carrion. This is why they are often seen near large predators such as cheetahs and leopards, benefiting from their kills. While they can occasionally be spotted alone, it’s more common to find them close to these apex hunters, quietly contributing to the ecosystem’s health.
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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