Jackal
• Scientific name: Canis aureus (Golden Jackal)
• Habitat: Grasslands, forests, scrublands, outskirts of human settlements
• Diet: Omnivorous (small animals, carrion, fruits)
• Role in ecosystem: Scavenger → helps in waste and carcass removal
Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 — Schedules
• Schedule I
Highest protection; strictest penalties; endangered/critically protected animals
• Schedule II
High protection; penalties less severe than Schedule I
• Schedule III
Protected plant species; regulates collection and trade of specified plants
• Schedule IV
CITES-aligned; regulates international trade in listed species (focus on trade control, not absolute protection)





