How are coyotes different from jackals?

         Jackals and coyotes are scavengers. They are opportunistic mammals, preying on small to medium sized animals. Both of they are omnivorous animals that enjoy a mixed diet. They have long legs and carved canine teeth that are suitable for hunting small animals. However, there are some differences between the two.

         Jackals are active at dusk and dawn. Occasionally, they travel in small packs to scavenge a carcass; however, they prefer to work either alone or in pairs. While these animals are found primarily in Africa, their presence is recorded in other parts of the world as well.

         The coyote, on the other hand, is native to North America. Compared to their close relatives, the grey wolves, coyotes are smaller and lighter. The coyote is sometimes called American jackal by zoologists, because it fulfills the same role that the golden jackal of Europe and Asia does. Coyotes are smarter than jackals as they can adapt to human environments. Coyotes too can hunt in packs, alone or in pairs.

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