Zambia Travel Guide
Zambia Travel Guide
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Caracal
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Zambia Travel Guide

Caracal



Felis caracal Shoulder height 40cm. Weight 15–20kg.
The caracal resembles the European lynx with its uniform tan coat and tufted ears. It is a solitary and mainly nocturnal hunter, feeding on birds, small antelope and young livestock. Found throughout the subcontinent, it easily adapts to a variety of environments and even occurs in some of Zambia's populated areas. Despite this, being nocturnal it is rarely seen. Caracals normally stalk their prey as closely as possible, before springing with surprise.

Similar species: The smaller African wild cat (Felis sylvestris) is found from the Mediterranean to the Cape of Good Hope, and is similar in appearance to the domestic tabby cat and a little larger. It has an unspotted torso, a ringed tail and a reddish-brown tinge to the back of its ears. Wild cats are generally solitary and nocturnal, often utilising burrows or termite mounds as daytime shelters. They prey upon reptiles, amphibians and birds as well as small mammals.


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