Occupies mainly the intermediate habitat between the plains, preferred by the golden jackal, and deciduous forests, which are the haunt of the side-striped jackal. Food A very opportunistic and versatile omnivore, does not follow preference patterns but rather adapts its diet to the available food sources which require least effort. Contrary to what an occasional observer might believe, the jackal is mostly a killer and not a carrion eater. Yet, it does not either refuse some vegetal food like fruits and berries. They can also attack small cattle, but it is infrequent in Kenya.
Jackals also feed on carrion.
They are promptly attracted by prey of larger carnivores, especially lions. While the big cats eat, jackals remain at a distance together with vultures and hyenas, waiting for the chance to snatch some piece of meat. When antelopes are in the calving season, jackals prowl amidst the herds to eat the foetal sacs. It usually buries the excess food someplace inside its territory, storing it for consumption within the next 24 hours. Quite often, these small loots are unearthed by hyenas.