Jackal Mother With Pups Causes Fear Among Residents in Ramat Gan Neighborhood
Encounters between jackals and humans have become increasingly common in the Tel Aviv metropolitan area, with the animals drawn to urban environments by food, water, and shelter. In Ramat Gan, residents of Herut Street are currently dealing with a female jackal that gave birth near their building and is aggressively defending her territory. The jackal has been seen growling, baring her teeth, and attempting to bite a small dog, causing fear among residents who now avoid going out at night.
Residents have appealed to the municipality to relocate the jackal and her pups, but so far, the animals have not been captured. A local resident described the situation: "The jackal gave birth right outside my door, and at night she tries to keep me away from my home. She even chased me and tried to bite my small dog." The municipal veterinarian advised placing a towel soaked in bleach inside the apartment to deter the animal, and the city set traps near the building after obtaining residents' consent.
Jackals are expanding their presence across Israel due to abundant food sources and poor sanitation. Ramat Gan is estimated to have a population of around 500 jackals, with at least 10 reported bite incidents in recent months. Dr. Tomer Nisimian from the Nature and Parks Authority explained that human activity unintentionally attracts jackals to urban areas. The authority has authorized the capture and relocation of the female jackal and her pups to protect public safety, emphasizing that while the presence of wildlife is natural, public health concerns take precedence.
The municipality noted that traps were set on private property only after all residents agreed, and they requested residents to trim dense vegetation that serves as shelter for the jackals. Despite the challenges, officials continue efforts to safely remove the animals while educating the public about coexistence with wildlife and the impact of feeding stray cats on jackal populations.
