Caracal / Felis Caracal / African Linx / Persian Lynx... a fiercely territorial medium-sized cat that are common in the Kalahari where we live. Although labeled as a small cat, but is amongst the heaviest of all small cats, as well as the fastest.
The Caracal resembles a Eurasian Lynx and for a long time it was considered a close relative of the lynxes. Recent DNA research, however, has shown that the Caracal is not a close relative of lynxes at all, but is instead related to the Serval and the African Golden Cat.
For farmers in Southern Africa, the Caracal is known as one of the most serious pest of sheep and goats. Their long back legs give them great jumping powers and they are able to snatch flying birds from the air (as can be seen by this great video below).
They are described as...
"The superstar of the animal world. This carnivore is perfect."
and
"This is the most enthusiastic jumper of all the cats" (Amanda Barrett about the caracal)
"The ultimate stealth hunter."
and
"The caracal is a champion in bird catch." (Tim Green about the caracal)
"In terms of stealth, agility and sharpened senses, it's one of the most efficient cats in the world." (Rob Harrison-White about the caracal)
Watch here a Caracal in action...
Interesting Facts about the Caracal
Caracal comes from the Turkish word "karakulak" meaning "black ear". The ears of these cats are black and topped with long black tufts about 1,75 inches long.
The black markings and black backs of its tufted ears make the caracal's face strikingly expressive, especially when its ears are turned down or back in aggressive or defensive threat.
The caracal does not have the ruff around its face like a lynx does. Caracals have short reddish brown fur. Their chin, throat and belly are white.
An adult caracal weighs 35-40 pounds, is 16-20 inches high at the shoulder, and 35-39 inches long (not including tail). Male and female look alike.
Caracals typically use abandoned burrows or rock crevices for maternal dens.
Caracals prey on rodents, hares and small antelope. They will also kill prey larger then themselves, such as adult springbok or young antelope. The caracal is well known for catching low-flying birds.
A caracal's hind legs are noticeably longer than his front legs.
