THE JACKALS. 209 
is not as yet ascertained ; they occupy the greatest 
geographical range of all the wild canines known. 
Although not common in remote antiquity, it is 
likely that, after the wars of the Romans in the 
east they became more abundant, and were then, 
it seems, partially noticed in the confused relation 
given of the Thoes by Atlian, where he assumes, 
that the impudence which caused them not to shun 
man, was an indication of their love and respect for 
human beings.* 
Jackals form a group of crepuscular and nocturnal 
canines, never voluntarily abroad before dusk, and 
then hunting for prey during the whole night; 
entering the streets of towns to seek for offals; 
robbing the hen-roosts ; entering outhouses; exa- 
mining doors and windows; feasting upon all 
dressed vegetables and ill-secured provisions; de- 
vouring all the carrion they find exposed, and 
digging their way into sepulchres that are not 
carefully protected against their activity and vo- 
raciousness ; and, in the fruit season, in common 
with foxes, seeking the vineyards and fattening 
* “© Thoa dicunt esse animal humanissimum, precipueque 
homini amicum et si forte in hominem inciderit revereri, ac 
velut observantes venerari ; amplius si a feris aliis circumven- 
tum senserit, tum vero occurrere protemis, opitularique pro 
viribus.” This description shows the readiness of the animals 
to watch mankind, and to be present where they hope to share 
the spoils. Still, while no mention is made of their incessant 
howling, there is a doubt whether it be not applicable to Thous 
aemon or to a Chaon, such as Chryseus aureus, or even to a feral 
dog, now even not uncommon in Natolia. 
VOL. I. 0 
