Golden Jackal project Samos
Overview
The island of Samos is inhabited by a unique population of golden jackals. Being separated geographically from neighbouring populations on the mainland, the golden jackals on Samos have been mirroring the success of the species in the rest of Europe. The adaptive nature and the behavioural flexibility allow golden jackals to thrive both in natural areas and landscapes dominated by human activity. A good understanding of the population dynamics and behavioural ecology of the island population on Samos would facilitate the decision-making for population management, conservation and legislative issues.
Golden Jackal Project Samos is a joint project between the Greek NGO Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation and the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU). The project aims to study the behavioural ecology and population dynamics of the unique population of golden jackals residing on the island of Samos, Greece. We look at various aspects, including social behaviour, movement patterns, seasonal variation in behaviour, and how golden jackals adapt to the island’s various environmental and ecological settings. Our mission is to improve upon current monitoring methods, population management, mitigation for stakeholders, and to inform the public about this charismatic species.
The Golden Jackal
The golden jackal is a medium-sized canid with an average size slightly larger than a red fox. The coat colouration can vary between shades of golden-brown, silver-grey, red, cream and black, and colour patterns are unique for each individual. Another recognisable feature of the golden jackal is the fused middle toes of both the front and hind paws. However, tracks in the field may be difficult to distinguish from dog prints due to the similarity in size.
Golden jackals originally inhabited a large range from western Asia to the Middle East and southeast Europe. During the past three decades, however, golden jackals have been emerging throughout Europe, expanding their range north and westwards. Sightings have been documented as far as Spain, France, the Netherlands, Norway and Finland.
© Large Carnivore Initiative Europe
As illustrated by their ongoing range expansion, golden jackals are not very selective regarding their habitat. Originally, it has been assumed that they have a preference for wetlands and other lower-lying areas, such as farmlands in temperate climates. Yet, they have been observed to reside in areas at higher altitudes, such as the Alps and with colder climate conditions, such as the (sub-) arctic circle.
Golden jackals are opportunistic omnivorous foragers relying on food sources that vary depending on the season. Their diet mainly consists of fruits, plants, insects and small animals such as rodents and birds. When given the opportunity, golden jackals will also kill and eat domestic animals such as poultry, sheep and goats. By eating carrion and pests, golden jackals provide important ecosystem services by acting as natural ‘cleaners’ and pest control. In this manner, they contribute to preventing the spread of diseases and controlling the population of species that are harmful to the local farmer’s harvest.
Golden jackals are social animals living together in family groups. Such a group consists of one monogamous dominant pair and one or more generations of offspring. Together, individuals within a group cooperatively raise new litters of pups by collecting food for them and the mother, and by looking after them. Group sizes may vary based on food availability and population density. A family group strictly protects its territory from other jackals. Golden jackals often make their presence known by engaging in elaborate group howling ceremonies. These howling ceremonies may facilitate social cohesion within a family group while contributing to the demarcation of the territory.
2nd style
The golden jackal is a medium-sized canid with an average size slightly larger than a red fox. The coat colouration can vary between shades of golden-brown, silver-grey, red, cream and black, and colour patterns are unique for each individual. Another recognisable feature of the golden jackal is the fused middle toes of both the front and hind paws. However, tracks in the field may be difficult to distinguish from dog prints due to the similarity in size.
Golden jackals originally inhabited a large range from western Asia to the Middle East, and southeast Europe. During the past three decades, however, golden jackals have been emerging throughout Europe, expanding their range north- and westwards. Sightings have been documented as far as Spain, France, the Netherlands, Norway and Finland.
© Large Carnivore Initiative Europe
As illustrated by their ongoing range expansion, golden jackals are not very selective regarding their habitat. Originally it has been assumed that they have a preference for wetlands and other lower-lying areas such as farmlands in temperate climates. Yet, they have been observed to reside in areas at higher altitudes, such as the Alps and with colder climate conditions, such as the (sub-) arctic circle.
Golden jackals are opportunistic omnivorous foragers relying on food sources that vary depending on the season. Their diet mainly consists of fruits, plants, insects and small animals such as rodents and birds. When given the opportunity, golden jackals will also kill and eat domestic animals such as poultry, sheep and goats. By eating carrion and pests, golden jackals provide important ecosystem services by acting as natural ‘cleaners’ and pest control. In this manner they contribute to preventing the spread of diseases and controlling the population of species that are harmful to the local farmer’s harvest
Golden jackals are social animals living together in family groups. Such a group consists of one monogamous dominant pair and one or more generations of offspring. Together, individuals within a group cooperatively raise new litters of pups by collecting food for them and the mother, and by looking after them. Group sizes may vary based on food availability and population density. A family group strictly protects its territory from other jackals. Golden jackals often make their presence known by engaging in elaborate group howling ceremonies. These howling ceremonies may facilitate social cohesion within a family group while contributing to the demarcation of the territory.
The golden jackal is a medium-sized canid with an average size slightly larger than a red fox. The coat colouration can vary between shades of golden-brown, silver-grey, red, cream and black, and colour patterns are unique for each individual. Another recognisable feature of the golden jackal is the fused middle toes of both the front and hind paws. However, tracks in the field may be difficult to distinguish from dog prints due to the similarity in size.
Golden jackals originally inhabited a large range from western Asia to the Middle East, and southeast Europe. During the past three decades, however, golden jackals have been emerging throughout Europe, expanding their range north- and westwards. Sightings have been documented as far as Spain, France, the Netherlands, Norway and Finland.
© Large Carnivore Initiative Europe
As illustrated by their ongoing range expansion, golden jackals are not very selective regarding their habitat. Originally it has been assumed that they have a preference for wetlands and other lower-lying areas such as farmlands in temperate climates. Yet, they have been observed to reside in areas at higher altitudes, such as the Alps and with colder climate conditions, such as the (sub-) arctic circle.
Golden jackals are opportunistic omnivorous foragers relying on food sources that vary depending on the season. Their diet mainly consists of fruits, plants, insects and small animals such as rodents and birds. When given the opportunity, golden jackals will also kill and eat domestic animals such as poultry, sheep and goats. By eating carrion and pests, golden jackals provide important ecosystem services by acting as natural ‘cleaners’ and pest control. In this manner they contribute to preventing the spread of diseases and controlling the population of species that are harmful to the local farmer’s harvest
Golden jackals are social animals living together in family groups. Such a group consists of one monogamous dominant pair and one or more generations of offspring. Together, individuals within a group cooperatively raise new litters of pups by collecting food for them and the mother, and by looking after them. Group sizes may vary based on food availability and population density. A family group strictly protects its territory from other jackals. Golden jackals often make their presence known by engaging in elaborate group howling ceremonies. These howling ceremonies may facilitate social cohesion within a family group while contributing to the demarcation of the territory.
The golden jackal is a medium-sized canid with an average size slightly larger than a red fox. The coat colouration can vary between shades of golden-brown, silver-grey, red, cream and black, and colour patterns are unique for each individual. Another recognisable feature of the golden jackal is the fused middle toes of both the front and hind paws. However, tracks in the field may be difficult to distinguish from dog prints due to the similarity in size.
Golden jackals originally inhabited a large range from western Asia to the Middle East, and southeast Europe. During the past three decades, however, golden jackals have been emerging throughout Europe, expanding their range north- and westwards. Sightings have been documented as far as Spain, France, the Netherlands, Norway and Finland.
© Large Carnivore Initiative Europe
As illustrated by their ongoing range expansion, golden jackals are not very selective regarding their habitat. Originally it has been assumed that they have a preference for wetlands and other lower-lying areas such as farmlands in temperate climates. Yet, they have been observed to reside in areas at higher altitudes, such as the Alps and with colder climate conditions, such as the (sub-) arctic circle.
Golden jackals are opportunistic omnivorous foragers relying on food sources that vary depending on the season. Their diet mainly consists of fruits, plants, insects and small animals such as rodents and birds. When given the opportunity, golden jackals will also kill and eat domestic animals such as poultry, sheep and goats. By eating carrion and pests, golden jackals provide important ecosystem services by acting as natural ‘cleaners’ and pest control. In this manner they contribute to preventing the spread of diseases and controlling the population of species that are harmful to the local farmer’s harvest.
Description
The golden jackal is a medium-sized canid with an average size slightly larger than a red fox. The coat colouration can vary between shades of golden-brown, silver-grey, red, cream and black, and colour patterns are unique for each individual. Another recognisable feature of the golden jackal is the fused middle toes of both the front and hind paws. However, tracks in the field may be difficult to distinguish from dog prints due to the similarity in size.
Distribution
Golden jackals originally inhabited a large range from western Asia to the Middle East, and southeast Europe. During the past three decades, however, golden jackals have been emerging throughout Europe, expanding their range north- and westwards. Sightings have been documented as far as Spain, France, the Netherlands, Norway and Finland.
Habitat
As illustrated by their ongoing range expansion, golden jackals are not very selective regarding their habitat. Originally it has been assumed that they have a preference for wetlands and other lower-lying areas such as farmlands in temperate climates. Yet, they have been observed to reside in areas at higher altitudes, such as the Alps and with colder climate conditions, such as the (sub-) arctic circle.
Diet and ecological role
Golden jackals are opportunistic omnivorous foragers relying on food sources that vary depending on the season. Their diet mainly consists of fruits, plants, insects and small animals such as rodents and birds. When given the opportunity, golden jackals will also kill and eat domestic animals such as poultry, sheep and goats. By eating carrion and pests, golden jackals provide important ecosystem services by acting as natural ‘cleaners’ and pest control. In this manner they contribute to preventing the spread of diseases and controlling the population of species that are harmful to the local farmer’s harvest.
Social behaviour
Golden jackals are social animals living together in family groups. Such a group consists of one monogamous dominant pair and one or more generations of offspring. Together, individuals within a group cooperatively raise new litters of pups by collecting food for them and the mother, and by looking after them. Group sizes may vary based on food availability and population density. A family group strictly protects its territory from other jackals. Golden jackals often make their presence known by engaging in elaborate group howling ceremonies. These howling ceremonies may facilitate social cohesion within a family group while contributing to the demarcation of the territory.
Documentary
Based on the scientific work a documentary will be made between 2025 and 2027 featuring the studied family group of golden jackals. The close monitoring of these animals for scientific research allows for a unique opportunity to document the intricate social life of the golden jackal on video and to convey their story to the public. Additionally, the documentary will feature the organisation and the scientists behind the scientific work.
Golden Jackals on Samos Island
The island of Samos is home to a unique island population of golden jackals in Greece. They can be found everywhere around the island, from pine forests, agricultural lands, cities and low-lying wetlands with dense reed coverage. Although they are only medium-sized carnivores, golden jackals are the top predators on Samos. Unlike the mainland, there are no wolves, bears or foxes. Notable mammal species that do occur on the island are the brown hare, the stone marten, the weasel, and the wild boar. Due to its status as a strictly protected species in Greece, the hunting of golden jackals is illegal on Samos. This has allowed for a rapid population expansion over the last few decades. The major threats to golden jackals on Samos are traffic accidents, poisoning and poaching, and free-roaming domestic dogs.
Our Methods
We monitor golden jackal family groups using camera traps (Campark TC07) placed in strategic locations within the group’s territory. Based on high-resolution videos, we maintain a catalogue containing photos of all the golden jackals within the group.
Photo-identification is applied to all of the collected footage to determine which individuals show which behaviours and who interacts with whom. All data is analysed using an established ethogram.
Active Bioacoustic Monitoring (BAM) is used to monitor the population density and distribution on Samos. This method involves broadcasting recordings of vocalisations of golden jackals (howls) and recording responses in different areas. Acoustic data is collected systematically across the island using a grid structure.
We study the diet ecology of golden jackals on Samos through the systematic collection and analysis of scats. We conduct stomach content analyses sporadically on roadkill. Additionally, DNA samples are collected from scats, and tissue is sampled from dead individuals.
We work together closely with locals to inform them about our research and to learn about their perceptions of golden jackals. This allows us to identify conflicts between humans and animals and to mitigate potential challenges.
Camera Traps
We monitor golden jackal family groups using camera traps (Campark TC07) placed in strategic locations within the group's territory. Based on high-resolution videos, we maintain a catalogue containing photos of all the golden jackals within the group.
Photo-identification
Photo-identification is applied to all of the collected footage to determine which individuals show which behaviours and who interacts with whom. All data is analysed using an established ethogram.
Active Bioacoustic Monitoring (BAM)
Active Bioacoustic Monitoring (BAM) is used to monitor the population density and distribution on Samos. This method involves broadcasting recordings of vocalisations of golden jackals (howls) and recording responses in different areas. Acoustic data is collected systematically across the island using a grid structure.
Diet Ecology
We study the diet ecology of golden jackals on Samos through the systematic collection and analysis of scats. We conduct stomach content analyses sporadically on roadkill. Additionally, DNA samples are collected from scats, and tissue is sampled from dead individuals.
Work with Locals
We work together closely with locals to inform them about our research and to learn about their perceptions of golden jackals. This allows us to identify conflicts between humans and animals and to mitigate potential challenges.
Documentary
Based on the scientific work a documentary will be made between 2025 and 2027 featuring the studied family group of golden jackals. The close monitoring of these animals for scientific research allows for a unique opportunity to document the intricate social life of the golden jackal on video and to convey their story to the public. Additionally, the documentary will feature the organisation and the scientists behind the scientific work.
Through Golden Jackal Project Samos Archipelagos Institute focuses on the research and conservation of the terrestrial wildlife of the island of Samos. Through this work Archipelagos acknowledges the intricate connection existing between land and sea, and highlights the importance of acquiring knowledge of terrestrial ecosystems for the conservation of both the terrestrial and marine ecosystems of the Aegean.
Documentary
Based on the scientific work, a documentary will be made between 2025 and 2027 featuring the studied family group of golden jackals. The close monitoring of these animals for scientific research allows for a unique opportunity to document the intricate social life of the golden jackal on video and to convey their story to the public. Additionally, the documentary will feature the organisation and the scientists behind the scientific work.
Partners
Scientific Publications
Monitoring of a Canis aureus population living in the airport area of Samos Island, Greece
Guido Pietroluongo, Joe Leggett, Javier Falquina Fernández, Irilena Linardaki, Mark Steer, William Parker, Anastasia Miliou, Thodoris Tsimpidis, Dionysios Ntampakis
Preliminary assessment of feeding ecology of a Golden jackal (Canis aureus) population in South Eastern Samos Island, Greece, through post-mortem examination and scat analysis
Guido Pietroluongo, Joe Leggett, Javier Falquina Fernández, Irilena Linardaki, William Parker, Anastasia Miliou, Thodoris Tsimpidis
The Secret Family Life of a Group of Golden Jackals on Samos, Greece
Jonas Custers, Jennifer Hatlauf, Sem van der Niet, Beatriz Tintoré, Anastasia Miliou
Golden jackals are social animals living together in family groups. Such a group consists of one monogamous dominant pair and one or more generations of offspring. Together, individuals within a group cooperatively raise new litters of pups by collecting food for them and the mother, and by looking after them. Group sizes may vary based on food availability and population density. A family group strictly protects its territory from other jackals. Golden jackals often make their presence known by engaging in elaborate group howling ceremonies. These howling ceremonies may facilitate social cohesion within a family group while contributing to the demarcation of the territory.