The caracal can be found in Africa, Pakistan, the Middle East, and Central India. They can tolerate dry climates and are often found in edge habitats, where forest and grasslands meet. While they will often prey on birds or smaller mammals, this small cat can regularly hunt prey two to three times their size.

Female caracals are pregnant for 68-81 days and will use caves, tree cavities, or abandoned burrows for dens. Litter sizes can be as large as six kittens, but the average is two. Caracal kittens open their eyes when they are between four to ten days old and will begin to vocalize with bird-like trills at twelve days of age. Kittens are fully weaned at 15 weeks of age and will leave their mother when they are 9 or 10 months old.

Our caracals here at Cat Haven are trained as ambassador animals to help educate the public about their wild counterparts. Through extensive training, they are comfortable walking on a harness and leash and traveling for offsite events, like school visits and fundraisers. They play a vital role in bringing awareness to the threats wild cats face.