Day of the jackal attack: Brave scavenger steals bone from vulture during vicious struggle

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER

Time to share: The jackal issues its challenge to the vulture in the Drakensburg National Park, South Africa


When it comes to meal times in the sparse African plain, competition can end up being the order of the day.

So when a determined jackal saw a vulture enjoying a juicy bone, there was always going to be trouble.

The pair came to blows after the hungry animal spied the three-feet tall bird and made a bid for the food.

But she obviously didn't bargain for her fellow scavenger's fighting spirit.


Not so fast: The vulture responds to the jackal's outrageous bid for the bone by pecking at its eyes


Determined to keep the tasty treat to itself the bird lashed out with its talons and the jackal was quick to retaliate with her sharp teeth.

Despite nearly losing her eyes in the vicious battle, the jackal's fierce determination paid off - she got to keep the stolen bone.

This spectacular sight was snapped by Michael Hofmeyr as he hiked with his wife, Romy, in the Drakensburg National Park, South Africa.

The 37-year-old bird enthusiast, who lives in Johannesburg, said it was the first time he'd witnessed such a brawl between the two species.

He said: 'We were watching the vulture picking on some bones when we noticed the jackal sneaking up on the vulture from behind a ridge.

'The jackal appeared nervous and came and went two or three times before deciding to have a go.

'When the jackal finally plucked up the courage he made a lightning dash for the bone that the vulture was busy with.


Response: The jackal bites back, and it's the beginning of the end for the vulture


Hungry: The jackal will not be deterred as it responds with an attack of its own, forcing the huge bird to fly away


'But the bird was in no way prepared to relinquish it and a fight ensued. At first the vulture appeared to be getting the upper hand by going for the jackal's eyes.

'But the jackal spun around and bit the vulture several times, after which the vulture let go of the bone and flapped away.

'The jackal appeared unharmed and ran off. The vulture initially looked slightly the worse for wear but he managed to fly away.'

Mr Hofmeyr, who works as an I.T. security consultant, added: 'I've never seen anything like it before, it's quite an unusual thing to witness.'

Jackals are found in Africa, Asia and south east Europe.

The species are known to scavenge but their long legs and curved canine teeth make them good hunters too - they mostly feed on small animals like birds and reptiles.


Still hungry: The vulture flies off in search of easier pickings


To the victor, the spoils: The jackal gets his teeth into the bone


Jackal's are built for long-distance running, they can sprint at up to speeds of 10 miles per hour.

The Cape vulture, of southern Africa, measures about three feet in height and can have a wingspan of up to eight feet.

They have been known to fly very long distances and at speeds 30 miles per hour. Occasionally they will float on air currents to save energy.

Like the jackal, the vulture is also a scavenging animal. The bird will feed mostly on the carcasses of dead animals.


source: dailymail