Caracal –Felis Caracal – Is found throughout Africa except for the dense forested areas of the Congo Basin and the Sahara dessert. Other parts of the world that you will find them is the Middle East, Central Asia and India.
Although similar in appearance it is not related to the Lynx which is a Northern Hemisphere “snow-dwelling” cat which is heavier and mottled black, white and grey. Only the Caracal and the Lynx have tufted ears.
The Caracal (Afrikaans nicknamed “Klossie oor” – “Tufted ear” and known in Afrikaans as the “Rooikat” – “Red Cat” is the only cat that hunts at day and at night.
Considered vermin by livestock farmers who shoot them on sight, they are constantly under attack.
Unfortunately, not enough research in alternative farming methods has been done to stop this assault on these magnificent creatures which also add value to farming by in turn preying on rodents, hairs and hyraxes.
Caracals are very successful cats and are probably the most common Wild Cat that you'll find in South Africa. They are native to most areas including the beautiful Garden Route.
A lesser-known fact about Caracals is that they have the extraordinary ability to leap up to 3 meters (about 10 feet) into the air to catch birds in flight. This remarkable hunting skill is aided by their powerful hind legs and keen reflexes. Caracals can even take down multiple birds at once during a single leap, showcasing their agility and precision as hunters. This ability makes them one of the most acrobatic predators in the wild.