The terror of wolves had not yet ended when now wild jackals had attacked the village. According to the information received, in the Jahanabad police station area of Pilibhit district, wild jackals created havoc in two villages, severely injuring seven people, including children. Initially, the suspicion was directed towards wolves, believing that the attack must have been carried out by them. However, a survey conducted by a specialized team from the forest department determined that this was the work of wild jackals that somehow entered the village.
Jackal attacks on humans are rare but can occur under certain circumstances. Typically, jackals are shy animals and avoid humans, but there are situations where they might become aggressive:
These could be the main reasons for a jackal attacking humans.
1. Rabies
One of the primary reasons for jackal attacks on humans is rabies. Rabid jackals can become unusually aggressive and lose their natural fear of humans, leading to unprovoked attacks.
2. Food Scarcity
Jackals might attack humans when they are desperate for food, especially in areas where their natural prey is scarce or where human encroachment has disrupted their habitat. In such situations, they may target small children or livestock.
3. Injured or Threatened:
If a jackal feels cornered, injured, or threatened by humans, it may attack in self-defense.
4. Human Habitation
In regions where human settlements are near jackal habitats, the animals might enter villages or towns in search of food, increasing the chances of conflict. If humans try to chase them away or interact with them, attacks could happen.
5. Protection of Young
Like many animals, jackals may become aggressive if they perceive a threat to their pups or family group.
In general, jackal attacks are not common, and most can be avoided by keeping a safe distance, securing livestock, and avoiding confrontation with wild animals.