Caracal
Scientific name: Caracal caracal
- How weight is recorded: Whole weight
Field notes
Appearance
The caracal is a muscular, slender cat with reddish-tan to golden-red coat. Distinctive features include long black ear tufts and white facial markings; males are noticeably larger than females.
Size and weight
Males 16–20 kg, females 11–16 kg. Body length 65–90 cm (excluding tail).
Habitat
Caracal favors open to semi-open landscapes including savanna, dry scrubland, and rocky terrain. The species is adaptable and occurs from sea level to highland plateaus.
Distribution
Caracal occurs throughout sub-Saharan Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and parts of South and Central Asia. Habitat preference centers on open and semi-open landscapes.
Diet
Caracal hunts small to medium prey including hyrax, rodents, birds, and small ungulates; prey availability shifts seasonally.
Behaviour
Primarily nocturnal but active during twilight hours. Solitary and strongly territorial; maintains home range through spray-marking and scent deposition on rocks and vegetation.
Hunting tips
Search for caracal sign at watering points and in valleys—tracks are small and asymmetrical. Focus glassing rocky outcrops and vegetation edges. The species is wary with keen sight and hearing; approach during dusk or night for best success, or glass from concealed vantage points overlooking active terrain.
Whole weight
This species is logged by whole weight — the animal weighed entire, as taken.
Where it is hunted
Listed as huntable in 7 countries in Huntify.
Names in other languages
Current language: en
These field notes are general species knowledge, not legal advice. Always check the current seasons, quotas and firearm rules where you hunt.