All Animals

Caracal

Caracal caracal
Mammal

Step into the world of our caracal and unlock the wonders of these extraordinary creatures

An image of a Caracal crouched low to the forest floor

The caracal, known for its distinctive tufted ears and striking appearance, is a fascinating and elusive member of the cat family. Native to Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, and India, these agile hunters are superbly adapted to their varied habitats, which range from savannas and forests to semi-deserts and scrublands.

Caracals are renowned for their impressive jumping ability, capable of leaping up to 3 meters in the air to catch birds in flight. They are solitary and primarily nocturnal, using their keen eyesight and hearing to hunt small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

Quick facts

Distribution:

Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia

Habitat:

Shrublands, grasslands, savannahs and dry forests

Conservation Status:

Least Concern

Fun fact

Caracals are some of the highest jumpers in the world! They can leap up to three meters in the air, to catch birds in flight.