Caracal

Caracal Latest News

Recently, officials have confirmed the return of the rare caracal in the Thar Desert near the India-Pakistan border.

About Caracal

• It is an elusive medium-sized wild cat species.
• It is often referred to as the desert lyn;, however, they are more closely related to the African golden cat and the Serval.
• In India, it is called siya gosh, a Persian name that translates as ‘black Ear’.
• Appearance
• • The caracal has a solid build, long legs, a short face, and tufted ears. 
  • The cat’s fur is generally a red-tan or sand, although some black caracals have also been seen. 
• Habitat: It can be found in many environments, such as semi-deserts, savannahs, shrublands, steppes, forests, and woodlands.  It prefers dry areas with very little rainfall.
• Distribution: It is native to Africa, Central Asia, the Middle East, northwestern India (primarily in Rajasthan and Gujarat) and arid areas of Pakistan.

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Characteristics of Caracal

• They are remarkable jumpers and can jump up to 3 meters (10 feet) into the air to knock flushed birds down with their paw. 
• They can reach speeds of up to 50 mph (80 kph) when in full flight.
• Like most species of cat, the caracal is predominantly nocturnal.
• They live in small herds and their shy and elusive nature makes them difficult to spot in the wild.
• Diet: Caracals are carnivores 

Conservation Status of Caracal

• IUCN: Least Concern
• Wildlife Conservation Act 1972:  Schedule 1

Source: TH