The Masked Jackal
Despite it's name, the masked jackal is not at all close to being related to the jackal, and is, in fact, closer to the domestic canine. Masked jackals are typically 25-30 inches in height, and weigh in between 45-60 pounds. The most common type has a thick coat, the hairs of which are a mix of mostly very fine hair, with an undercoat that is made up of strong wiry hairs though there have been specimens observed do have short coats or to even be hairless, though these are more rare and are believed to be the result of genetic mutation.
Masked jackals are most well-known for their long, thick tongues. Their tongues are very thick around, coming to an abrupt point at their tip. The texture of this appendage has been compared to that of cattle or of cats.
The place where their fur is at it's thickest is on their neck, and even many hairless/near hairless specimens have been noted to have hair on their necks.
This has been attributed to another of their notable traits. Many of these animals have some sort of appendage hidden beneath the fur whether it is tentacle-like limbs, spines, quills, etc.
Masked jackal's have specialized salivatory glands, some have acidic saliva, some have venomous saliva, etc. This saliva is only expelled when the animal is excited or threatened.
And now, the thing you probably noticed first.
The mask.
Masked Jackals have one defect, after 3 months the top half of the animal's head, both skin and skull, begin to deteriorate down to the gumline, to the cheekbones and up to the back of the head. Because of this, a serum has been created to protect the inside, and special masks made of various materials are custom-made.
Some don't have this issue, but most do, though it can range from very minor to an extreme of the whole upper part of the skull deteriorating. When the mask is placed on the open part of the head, the bone will fuse to it, and flesh will grow onto the fusing point.
Despite their issues and looks, they have shown to be great pets in special circumstances, and amazing guard animals.
Ezra has very little remaining of her upper skull, small bits of teeth and palate line the underside of her mask.
