Caracal

Caracal: A rare caracal was recently spotted in Rajasthan's Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve, creating excitement among wildlife enthusiasts.

• About Caracal: its scientific name is Caracal caracal, also called “Siya Gosh” in India, meaning ‘Black Ear’ in Persian, a medium-sized, nocturnal wildcat.
• Distribution: Found in Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. In India, their population is estimated to be around 50, mainly in Rajasthan and Gujarat.

• Habitat: Adaptable to various environments, including grasslands, savannas, scrublands, forests, and rocky hills.
• Caracal Features:

o Fur and Colour: Short, dense fur ranging from tawny-brown to reddish-tan, with whitish underparts.

o Facial Features: Dark lines on the face and white spots around the eyes. Large, black pointed ears — their most distinctive feature.

o Hunting Skills: Exceptional hunters; can leap 2 meters into the air from a standstill to catch birds, can reach speeds of up to 50 mph (80 kph).

• Conservation Status:

o IUCN Red List: Least Concern.

o Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I.