File:Black-backed jackal standing in tall grass - DPLA - 766fd2b88c7ee5845e04d9be0c53e67b.jpg

35 mm slide; color. Scientific Classification: Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Chordata; Class: Mammalia; Order: Carnivora; Family: Canidae; Genus: Canis; Genus species: Canis mesomelas. Animal characteristics: Head-Body Length: 65-106 cm; Height: 38-50 cm; Weight: 7-15 kg; Identification: The black-backed jackal has a russet coat with a brindled black and white saddle; Habitat: Dry brush woodlands; Diet: Omnivore: fruit, invertebrates, reptiles, amphibians, birds, small mammals, carrion; Reproduction: After a gestation period of 63 days, females give birth to 1-9 pups between July and October. The young remain in the den for three weeks, are weaned at eight weeks, and leave their parents at 1-2 years of age. Yearlings may stay with their parents to help raise their next litter; Social Structure: Black-backed jackals live together in pairs but often hunt in family troops; Behavior: Jackals are cooperative hunters; Status: No special status; Interesting Facts: One specific fruit that is eaten by jackals may serve as a natural dewormer.