The gold jackal is here: threat to our ecosystem in Germany?

The gold jackal is here: threat to our ecosystem in Germany?

Baden-Württemberg, Deutschland - In Germany, the gold jackal causes a stir. Originally native to warmer regions such as the southeast of Europe and Asia, this species of animal, which is related to the wolf, has established itself in this country due to climate change in recent years. This development could have a significant impact on the local wildlife. The gold jackal, which has been spotted more often, especially in the past five years, gives rise to discussion about its role in the German ecosystem.

The first official viewing of a gold jackal in Germany took place in Brandenburg in 1997. Felix Böcker from the forest test and research institute (FVA) Baden-Württemberg told the German Press Agency (dpa) that the animals now also have offspring in the circles of Black Forest Baar and Constance in Baden-Württemberg and in the Uelzen district of Lower Saxony. "We have to prepare for further spread in Germany," emphasizes Böcker. Creating a complete picture of the gold jackal population in Germany is a challenge because the exact number of animals is difficult to determine.

gold jackal in the German ecosystem

The effects of the gold jackal on the ecosystem have not yet been fully researched. Böcker found that there are no proven negative influences of the animals on the local fauna, which is why the gold jackal cannot be classified as an invasive way. Invasive types are those that cause problems in new habitats worldwide because they press domestic species and compete for resources.

Particularly interest arouses the question of how society and agriculture will react to the presence of the gold jackal. While the wolf in Germany is often perceived as a threat to farm animals, public opinion towards the gold jackal is uncertain. "I am very excited to see how society deals with the topic," said Böcker. In contrast to the wolf, which has a dangerous reputation, the gold jackal could meet broader acceptance.

The gold jackal is an adaptable hunter who feeds primarily from smaller prey such as mice, rats, rabbits and rabbits. However, he can also succumb to larger animals such as deer and sheep, although there have already been reports on sheep killings. These incidents lead to consideration in cattle breeding, but so far no major problems have been documented.

the gold jackal at a glance

• Name: Canis Aureus, Goldschakal
• order: predator
• family: dog -like
• Weight: Seven to 15 kilograms
• Size: shoulder height 44 to 50 centimeters
• Status in the International Red List of the World Conservation Union (IUCN): Not endangered

In addition to hunting for mammals, the gold jackal also attracts fruits, berries and AAS. Should he come across a dead body, he is quickly there. Böcker explains that it is important to clarify whether the gold jackal sheds the animal or only uses the remains. Try the gold jackal to integrate into the new environment, but there are many open questions that require a more detailed examination.

The spread of the gold jackal is currently raising a lot of space for speculation. Since the animal is still relatively unknown, the thrill of uncertainty is noticeable. Experts are calling for specific biological-social science research to better understand the behavior and effects of the gold jackal on nature and society. Ultimately, it remains to be seen how this new animal is integrated into the existing ecosystem and which adaptation mechanisms will be necessary to ensure harmonious coexistence. More information on this topic offers The report on www.fr.de .