Rare Sighting in Mukundra Hills
Rare Caracal Spotted in Rajasthan’s Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve: A rare caracal, one of India’s most elusive wild cats, was recently spotted in Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan. This significant sighting highlights both the reserve’s biodiversity and the urgent conservation needs for one of India’s critically endangered mammal species, whose estimated population in the country is less than 50 individuals.
Caracal: A Mysterious Predator
The caracal (Caracal caracal) is a medium-sized wild cat distinguished by its long tufted ears, sleek body, and exceptional agility. Native to Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, and parts of India, the species is known for its elusive nature and nocturnal habits. Despite its wide global distribution, India hosts only a small, fragmented population, primarily in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and parts of Madhya Pradesh.
Conservation Status in India
In India, the caracal is listed as critically endangered under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, owing to its drastically low population, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict. The recent sighting underscores the importance of habitat protection and ecological monitoring, especially in dryland ecosystems where caracals thrive.
Importance of the Sighting
The spotting of the caracal in Mukundra Hills is a positive sign for local biodiversity and reaffirms the ecological value of Rajasthan’s protected areas. It also provides valuable data for researchers and wildlife managers working to track, conserve, and revive India’s vanishing species. Conservation efforts must now focus on enhancing protected corridors, monitoring populations, and engaging local communities in wildlife protection.
Static GK Snapshot
Rare Caracal Spotted in Rajasthan’s Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve:
| Feature | Detail |
| Species | Caracal (Caracal caracal) |
| Sighting Location | Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan |
| Estimated Population in India | Fewer than 50 |
| IUCN Status (Global) | Least Concern |
| Conservation Status (India) | Critically Endangered (Wildlife Protection Act) |
| Native Range | Africa, Middle East, Central Asia, India |
| Indian States with Presence | Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh |
| Key Features | Medium-sized, long tufted ears, agile hunter |
| Major Threats | Habitat loss, human conflict, lack of awareness |
