The golden jackal in the Jordan River: Ecological insights, coexistence and conservation strategies

This study represents the first comprehensive long-term monitoring program for golden jackal (Canis aureus syriacus) in Jordan. The research took place on a private citrus fruit farm in the lower Jordan River region, employing camera traps with a total effort of 2,548 trapping days from June 2020 to February 2022. The findings provide new insights into the species' activity patterns, population estimates, interspecies coexistence, and various ecological aspects. A population of approximately 12 individuals was monitored, with 24% of the recorded photos capturing a mated pair and 8% showing packs of three to six individuals. The jackals exhibited diverse survival strategies, utilizing the Jordan River as a natural barrier for protection and movement and the dense reed vegetation for hiding and shelter. Activity and group formations peaked in October, suggesting that reproductive activities likely commence from August to January. Social behaviors such as grooming, playing, and resting were primarily observed during the autumn and winter seasons, mostly at night, to avoid the high daytime temperatures in the northern Ghor, which can exceed 45 °C in summer. The study recorded no interactions between jackals and feral dogs, suggesting an absence of interspecific hybridization. Additionally, the spatial and temporal coexistence of the golden jackal with other wildlife, including Egyptian mongooses, nutria, and black storks, was noted, possibly due to similar ecological requirements and reduced competition. The study emphasizes the significance of restricted access and protection by the army, which enhances the potential for implementing the Other Effective Conservation Measures (OECMs) approach to conserve species and aid Jordan's efforts in meeting its obligations under the Convention on Biological Diversity. This study significantly contributes to the enhance our understanding of the golden jackals in Jordan.