Return of the Caracal in the Thar Desert

Why in News?

Officials have confirmed the return of the Caracal in the Thar Desert, where two individuals were recently spotted in Jaisalmer, raising fresh hopes for its conservation. 

About Caracal

The caracal is a medium-sized wild cat belonging to the Felidae family, known for its distinctive black ear tufts and tawny-brown coat, and its name is derived from the Turkish word karakulak meaning “black ear.” 

Distribution & Habitat

It was once widely distributed across arid regions of Rajasthan and Gujarat and prefers dry, scrubland and semi-arid ecosystems. 

Conservation Status

The species is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 and is considered critically endangered in India, with only about 50 individuals remaining. 

Threats

Its population has declined by over 95% due to habitat loss, fragmentation, decline in prey base, and retaliatory killings by humans. 

Conservation Efforts

The Wildlife Institute of India is studying its ecology and movement, while the Wildlife Trust of India is promoting community-based conservation to reduce human-wildlife conflict.