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We were very shocked today in Mathyolweni. We came across 5 silver backed jackals and realised very quickly that there was war! Three of them attacked the other pair and the female of this pair ran off some distance and then screamed continuously. The 3 literally slaughtered the other little male (he was very close to death when we left). One held him by the throat and the other two were ripping at his hind legs and shaking him constantly. Twice he managed to escape and twice they grabbed him again. We were shocked at how viciously they continued to attack him. Every time the poor female got closer, one of the three would rush off to chase her. I know it's nature, but it wasn't pleasant to watch. It must have taken at least twenty to twenty five minutes for him to lie still, JUST breathing and all of them were covered in blood. I would like to know if this was a territory thing, or is there some other reason why this would occur with jackals? Any ideas?

Drat! I had hoped someone had commented by now. I have a video of it (taken with a digital camera, but pretty clear). Is there a ranger who could comment?

Perhaps post this in Addo Park Experience by RonnieL - who is a very experienced Addo visitor for many years, you may get a comment there

I can just imagine what a sight it must have been - A dog fight of note it seems

I would guess that it would be a territory thing. You are so lucky to have witnessed this, yet at the same time I can only imagine how upsetting and horrible it must have been to watch. I would like to see your video if you have it posted on the internet somewhere?

jeni,
We have black-backed jackals (which are very common), cape fox (not very common) and bat-eared fox (fairly common, more nocturnal) in the Park. Could the fight possibly have been between jackal and bat-eared fox? It is quite common for jackal to attack fox as they are competitors for food. Do you have any photos of the incident?