The Caracal
The caracal is the largest African lesser cat and an exceptional climber and jumper. The caracal is a slenderly built cat with long legs and a short, sharply tapered tail. The Caracal resembles a cross between a leopard and a lynx. Its coat is reddish-brown with distinctive tufted ears and white markings around its eyes and on its throat, chin, and belly.
Species: Felis Caracal
Size: The caracal stands 40 - 50 cm at the shoulder and weighs 18 to 21 kg.
Habitat: The Caracal is widespread and common, south of the Sahara. It is far more common in Southern than East Africa.
Diet Description: The Caracal feeds on rodents, small antelope, hares and birds and sometimes eats sheep and goats. It is mainly active in the morning and evening although during the hottest months it hunts at night.
The caracal can survive for long periods without drinking as most of the moisture it needs comes from the tissue fluids of its prey.
Reproduction: Sexual maturity occurs at about 20 months. Gestation is 70 - 78 days and between 1 to 4 young are born.
Predators: Humans. The caracal is an endangered species.
Caracal are mostly killed by farmers, because of predation on their livestock. In some areas of their range they are killed for their skin and meat by people. |
