Excitement is brewing in the area as a rare visitor has made an appearance at Delta Park. A black-backed jackal, an elusive and captivating creature, has been spotted roaming the park’s scenic landscapes. While this sighting presents a unique opportunity to witness a wild animal up close, it is crucial for everyone to prioritize their safety and that of their pets. Authorities are urging park visitors to keep their dogs on leashes and avoid any close encounters with the jackal.
Reporting Sightings: Should you spot the black-backed jackal during your visit to Delta Park, it is encouraged to report the sighting to:
Geoff Lockwood 082 346 2597 or
Margaret from Friends of Free Wildlife 082 561 3681
Meet the Black-backed Jackal: The black-backed jackal (Canis mesomelas) is a small to medium-sized member of the canid family. With a slender build, sandy-brown fur, and distinct black fur running down its back, this enchanting creature is a remarkable sight to behold. Native to southern and eastern Africa, including South Africa, they are known for their intelligence, adaptability, and nocturnal habits.
Habits and Behavior: Black-backed jackals are predominantly nocturnal creatures, meaning they are most active during the night. They possess keen senses of hearing and smell, allowing them to detect prey and potential threats in their surroundings. While they primarily feed on small mammals, birds, insects, and carrion, they are also opportunistic and may scavenge from human waste if available.
Importance of Safety: While the presence of the black-backed jackal in Delta Park is a remarkable occurrence, it is important to remember that it is a wild animal. When encountering the jackal, it is crucial to maintain a safe distance and avoid any attempts to interact with it.
In particular, dog owners are strongly advised to keep their pets on leashes at all times while in the park. Dogs have a natural instinct to chase and may inadvertently provoke or harm the jackal if allowed to approach. By keeping dogs on leashes, we can ensure the safety of both our pets and the wildlife that calls Delta Park home.
The jackal was seen again in Buckingham Avenue, 14 June 2023