Another interaction between a Golden Jackal and a stray dog observed near the mangroves and wetlands in Kharghar on Thursday has raised concerns over the rising frequency of such interactions. Wildlife enthusiasts say such interactions could lead to the transmission of diseases between the two species. The video filmed in the Navi Mumbai-Kharghar area has been widely shared online. It shows a peaceful interaction between the jackal and the stray dog. The video is reportedly captured by Seema Tank, an animal welfare officer who is both a dog lover and a wildlife enthusiast.

Neha Panchamiya, founder and president of RESQ Charitable Trust, said, “In this video, the domestic dog exhibits social behaviours and attempts to initiate interaction with the jackal. However, the jackal consistently avoids engagement and displays calming signals, indicative of its intent to de-escalate the interaction and convey a lack of interest in socialising. Calming signals (eg. avoiding eye contact, turning back, freezing, etc.) are a natural behavioural response, often used to reduce potential stress or conflict in interspecies encounters.”