The Black-backed jackal is an African canine with a fox-like appearance, tan fur, and a thick stripe of black and silver running down its back. They weigh anywhere from 15 to 30 pounds and are 15 to 30 centimeters at the shoulder. Males are usually larger than females. They are territorial, monogamous, and usually live in small family groups. They often scavenge, but they are also successful hunters.

They sometimes are killed for livestock predation or for their furs, but they are quite common throughout their range.