Caracal  (Caracal caracal)

Despite its widespread distribution and relatively large overall population, in certain parts of its range, the caracal is considered rare and threatened. In North Africa, Arabia, Asia and India, habitat loss is posing a significant threat to the caracal’s survival (1) (4). This is especially true of the Indian population, which having previously suffered heavy losses from fur trappers, is now close to extinction (4). In southern Africa, where the caracal is common, it is heavily persecuted as a pest due to its habit of preying on livestock. Nevertheless, despite large numbers being killed, the population does not appear to be suffering (1) (4).

Although caracal hunting is still legal in some parts of its range, in India, much of sub-Saharan Africa, and many south-west and central Asian countries, it is prohibited (7). Furthermore, the Asian caracal population is listed on Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), making all international trade in this species illegal (3).

The presence of the caracal in numerous, large and well-managed protected areas throughout its range is helping to safeguard populations against habitat loss (1). This has been particularly beneficial in India, where areas set aside for tiger conservation are now also forming vital refuges for the caracal’s endangered population. With these measures in place the future of this remarkable cat looks optimistic (8).