Jackal on Sylt: Germany's New Invader - Is This the Beginning of a Golden Age?
Rare Sighting of a Golden Jackal on Sylt: Is It Really Unusual? - Unusual Sighting of a Golden Jackal on Sylt Island: Is This Common?
Let's talk 'bout that jackal on Sylt - yep, you heard it right! While it might sound like a pipe dream, it's the real deal. Around 20-30 hunters have been chasing the creature during its nightly explorations, as reported by Manfred Uekermann, the deputy chief hunter of Nordfriesland. If successful, this would be the first documented shooting of a golden jackal in Germany, according to the German Hunting Association.
But seriously, aren't jackals only found in the wild plains?
Contrary to popular belief, golden jackals (Canis aureus) have made themselves right at home in various regions. Unlike wolves, which were once native here before their extinction, golden jackals are relative newcomers to Germany and other European countries. These furry critters can be found in great numbers in the Near East, India, and other regions of Asia.
The far-flung corners of Europe are no longer foreign territory to these jackals, either. Initially, golden jackals resided mainly in southeastern Europe. However, over time, they've been venturing north and west, establishing themselves in regions previously unfamiliar to them.
So, why should this jackal be called out?
Golden jackals are quite protected under the Federal Species Protection Ordinance and are not among the commonly hunted species in Germany. Yet, the animal has taken a toll on livestock on Sylt. The State Office for the Environment in Schleswig-Holstein issued an exception permit due to the damage caused to livestock and the potential threat to ground-nesting birds, as well as the significance of sheep to coastal protection.
"In this case, there are three compelling reasons, so I support an exception permit issued by the State Office for the Environment,” commented Environment Minister Tobias Goldschmidt (Greens).
Being a jackal on the loose has become costly for the wildlife in question.
Why does the jackal slaughter more lambs than it can consume?
A phenomenon known as surplus killing often occurs when prey animals are penned in. The confined sheep on Sylt cannot escape or defend themselves effectively, often leading to repeated predatory encounters. In nature, however, the rest of a herd would presumably disperse if one member was caught.
This behavior is not unique to golden jackals. It has also been observed in wolves, martens, foxes, and other predatory animals.
Is it definitive that a jackal is to blame?
Indeed, it is. While free-roaming dogs have been known to attack sheep and lambs, genetic samples taken from Sylt have confirmed that a golden jackal is responsible for the approximately 100 attacks since May 19. Besides, there are recorded videos from mobile phones and wildlife cameras to back up this conclusion.
So, how did this jackal manage to reach the island?
Sylt is connected to the mainland via the approximately 8-kilometer-long Hindenburgdam, which the animal most likely traversed. It's noteworthy that deer, as well as other species, use the dam as a route to the island. Swimming canine species, such as wolves, coyotes, and jackals, can also make their way across water.
Are golden jackals everywhere in Germany now?
In essence, yes. The first confirmed sightings were made in southern Brandenburg in 1997. Since then, more and more cases have been reported in various federal states, most recently in Rhineland-Palatinate. A precise count for Germany is not yet available.
According to the Large Carnivore Initiative for Europe (LCIE), golden jackals are moving northwards across central, western, and northern Europe. These nomadic jackals can cover several hundred kilometers in search of new territories, as noted by the Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union (NABU). LCIE estimates that there are currently around 150,000 golden jackals in Europe - quite a jump compared to the 23,000 wolves in the region.
Should I be terrified of a golden jackal?
Absolutely not. While it's true that these animals can represent a risk to smaller livestock like sheep or goats, they generally avoid human contact and pose no significant threat to adult cattle or horses.
Why haven't I seen one before?
The size of these furry creatures and their furtive nature make it difficult to spot them. What's more, they are predominantly nocturnal and can be easily mistaken for foxes or slender dogs. Rare and direct observations are the exception rather than the rule, with most evidence coming from camera trap footage.
Can I spot a golden jackal?
Our golden jackal boasts a name-giving yellowish-gray coat, bushy tail, and weighs around 10 kilograms - larger than a fox and smaller than a wolf, with which it shares a close genetic relationship. Normally, they have a dark, not light, tail tip. Communication usually consists of wailing, howling, and barking sounds.
- The presence of golden jackals in Germany, including the one on Sylt, raises questions about community policy regarding environmental protection, as these animals are protected under the Federal Species Protection Ordinance.
- The increasing number of golden jackals in Europe, particularly in Germany, showcases how science and environmental-science can help us better understand these creatures' migration patterns, thus contributing to a healthier and more balanced environment, benefiting both wildlife and the environment, and the lifestyle of home-and-garden owners.
