THE BLACK-BACKED JACKAL 
(Canis mesomelas) 
Also known as the Cape Jackal, Rooi Jakhals, Red Jackal, 
Golden Jackal ; among the Swazis, Zulus, and Amaxosa 
it is called the Impungutshe; Bechuanas as the 
Pukuye. 
Tuts well-known Red or Black-backed Jackal is an 
inhabitant of Africa from the Cape to Middle 
Nubia, in situations where the environment is 
suited to its existence. 
In South Africa it is very widespread, and in the 
bush-covered districts it abounds in spite of the 
most strenuous efforts of farmers to exterminate it. 
The jackal is a member of the dog tribe, and so 
close is the relationship with domestic dogs that 
there is no difficulty in getting it to breed freely 
with them. é 
The Black-backed Jackal is an animal of almost 
the size of a collie dog, and is nocturnal in its habits. 
In the wilder districts, however, which are far re- 
moved from the European colonist, it is frequently 
seen abroad during the daytime; but it has long 
since learned to dread the white man with his gun, 
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