Golden Jackals in Urban Mumbai

Golden jackals (Canis aureus), native species protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, are increasingly seen in urban Mumbai due to habitat loss from urbanisation. The Wildlife Conservation Society India highlights their adaptation to changing environments, becoming diurnal in response to urban pressures. Key threats include habitat destruction and highway accidents. Jackals are crucial for biodiversity, controlling smaller animal populations. Conservation measures like population censuses, camera traps, and enhanced mangrove management are essential. In areas like Chembur, coexistence models have proven successful. Balancing urban development with wildlife conservation is critical for sustaining biodiversity in rapidly urbanising regions.