These animals tend to live singly or in pairs, but have been known to form packs having as many as 6 members. Packs of 8 to 12 have been recorded but are extremely rare. These jackals tend to forage on their own or in pairs. Areas with larger food supplies often encourage larger groupings. These mated pairs are territorial and are known to mark and defend the boundaries of their territory.
Jackals are very vocal creatures.
Yipping calls are made when the family gathers and are specific to individual families. Non-members do not recognize, or respond to the calls of other families. Additionally, when threatened, these jackals make loud screaming vocalizations. When seriously wounded, the vocalizations change from screams to low croaks. Habitat Side-striped jackals are most common in moister habitats.