Species profile
About the caracal
The caracal is a compact, muscular cat of dry country, unmistakable for its plain sandy coat and the long black tufts on its ears. It is far less often seen than the serval because it favours drier, thicker cover and is more strictly nocturnal.
Its athleticism is remarkable: a caracal can spring vertically into a rising flock of birds and knock several down with its forepaws in a single leap. In Tanzania it is thinly distributed across the drier north and centre.
Life in the wild
Behavior & relationships
Behavior
Nocturnal and secretive. Stalks close then rushes, and is an exceptional jumper. Caches larger kills in vegetation or occasionally in trees.
Social life
Solitary and territorial, with males holding ranges that overlap those of several females.
What makes it remarkable
Special features
Long black ear tufts used in signalling between individuals, and the highest vertical leap of any small African cat.
