engleski

Comparison of morphometric characteristics of the golden jackal from eastern Croatia and eastern Serbia

The golden jackal (Canis aureus aureus L.) is a carnivorous mammal which has been inhabitant in the areas of middle and southeastern Europe up to the end of 19th century. After that, its population declined and become extinct. In the recent period, the species is in rapid biological expansion across southeastern, and spreads into middle Europe. Specimens of individuals of golden jackal has been collected during three hunting years (2008/2009 – 2010/2011) from the hunting grounds in the eastern Croatia and eastern Serbia. Morphometric investigation has been done on total of 82 golden jackals, of which 66 from eastern Croatia and 16 from eastern Serbia. Measurement comprised 30 specific parameters, and it was performed at right body side, with accuracy of ± 1mm. By the analysis of measurement data, it was determined that differences exist between populations of golden jackal in eastern Croatia and eastern Serbia. Those from eastern Serbian population had larger mean body length and also head width, in comparison to those from eastern Croatian population, which had larger mean height up to withers. Mature individuals from eastern Serbia had significantly longer body and higher head width, while those from eastern Croatia had larger height up to withers. Statistical differences in morphometric measures of body trunk and limbs in golden jackals, culled in the hunting areas in eastern Croatia and eastern Serbia, were relatively low. Differences can be attributed to various fattening conditions of individuals living at diverse localities.

Golden jackal ; Canis aureus ; morphometric ; Croatia ; Serbia

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