Mandsaur (Madhya Pradesh): The adult male Caracal was spotted in the camera surveillance system of Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary, within the Bhanpura-Garot assembly constituency area, along the Chambal River, on Thursday night.
This records as the first confirmed sighting of the species in a protected area of the state in several years.
Caracals, known locally by the same name, are extremely shy, nocturnal carnivores, renowned for their exceptional agility and speed.
Weighing between 7-18 kilograms, these wild cats prefer dry, bushy, rocky terrain and open grasslands.
The species is currently classified as endangered in the country due to habitat loss and declining populations.
Gandhi Sagar forest officer said that the presence of an adult male caracal in their sanctuary is crucial from a biodiversity perspective. It demonstrates that their dry and semi-arid ecosystems remain rich and balanced enough to support this rare species.
He added Caracals are naturally found across Africa, Central Asia and parts of our country. However, their presence in Indian wildlife sanctuaries has become increasingly rare.
Forest department officials credit dedicated conservation efforts and habitat preservation for creating conditions suitable for these endangered species family and friends.
