Golden Jackals Set to Expand Across Europe Amidst Wolf Recovery
As wolves recover, golden jackals may still conquer most of Europe thanks to 'human shield'
Phys.org
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Research indicates that human activity may enable golden jackals to expand their territory across Europe, potentially occupying up to 75% of the continent. The presence of gray wolves, which traditionally suppress jackal populations, is being mitigated by proximity to human settlements, creating a 'human shield' effect.
- 01Golden jackals could occupy up to 75% of Europe, a significant increase from their current range.
- 02The presence of gray wolves has historically suppressed jackal populations, but their recovery is being countered by human influence.
- 03Research analyzed data from 8,991 locations across 13 European countries from 2001 to 2017.
- 04Jackals thrive in areas with shorter snow cover, intermediate forest cover, and near water bodies, particularly where wolves are absent.
- 05The 'human shield' effect allows jackals to thrive near human settlements, potentially facilitating their expansion despite wolf recovery.
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A study published in *Nature Ecology & Evolution* suggests that human activities may be aiding the expansion of golden jackals across Europe by reducing the suppressive impact of gray wolves. Historically, wolves, which can outcompete jackals, have been restricted in range due to human persecution. The research, which analyzed data from over 8,900 locations across 13 countries, found that jackals are more likely to inhabit areas where wolves are absent and near human settlements. This phenomenon, referred to as the 'human shield,' allows jackals to thrive even as wolf populations recover. Currently, jackals are primarily found in southeastern and central Europe, but the study indicates that 75% of the continent is environmentally suitable for their presence. Although the recovery of wolves may reduce suitable habitats for jackals, ongoing climate change and land-use changes, combined with the 'human shield' effect, are likely to facilitate further jackal expansion across Europe.
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The expansion of golden jackals may disrupt local ecosystems and wildlife management across Europe, affecting both biodiversity and human-wildlife interactions.
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