Avoidance of cyanide guns by black-backed jackal

Abstract The role of inherent behavioral patterns and acquired avoidance of cyanide guns in practice by black-backed jackals Canis mesomelas was investigated. Two different experiments with captive jackals yielded data on their behavior towards novel objects. These experiments with jackals included: (a) the reaction of seven 10-month-old individuals exposed to meat only, and a combination of meat and novel objects (cyanide guns or balls), and (b) the change in reaction of 12 juveniles and 14 adults during consecutive exposures to cyanide guns over time. The average reaction time for jackals to respond to meat was shorter than for meat plus strange objects. Furthermore, more inexperienced than experienced jackals were attracted to cyanide guns. In addition, partners of experienced jackals learned to avoid cyanide guns. We conclude that inherent as well as acquired behavioral patterns in jackals could lead to the less effective use of cyanide guns to remove individuals in areas where control operations are undertaken.