Rare Arabic Caracal Caught On Camera In Fujairah Mountains
JAKARTA - The rare Arabic Caracal was found visible in Wadi Wurayah National Park, a protected mountainous area managed by the Fujairah Environmental Authority, United Arab Emirates (UAE).
This species, which is listed as endangered species on the UAE National Red List, was caught on camera by motion sensors by conservationists working in the region.
This is the third sighting that has attracted public attention since 2019, when this rare cat was spotted in Jebel Hafeet for the first time in 35 years.
This Caracal was also seen near Wadi Shees in March 2023, with this latest sighting offering new hope for his long-term survival.
Each sighting provides important data to assess the status of this species, protect its fragile habitat, and guide strategies to ensure its survival, conservationist said.
Photos of these stray cats were taken using a motion sensor track camera mounted on Wadi Wurayah. The cameras were triggered by movement and operating day and night using infrared light.
"The rediscovery of Arabic Caracals in Wadi Wurayah is a strong reminder of the role of this park as a haven for rare and endangered species," explained Dr. Al Hassan Alhamoudi, director of the Department of Biodiversity and Natural Resources at the Fujairah Environmental Authority, as reported by The National 6 October.
Arabic Caracal can be recognized from its striking black earbule and sturdy body. They are the top predators that maintain the balance of the mountainous ecosystem by regulating the population of prey species.
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Currently, the number of adult Arabic Caracals in the wild is estimated to be less than 250.
Cat ini bersifat nokturnal, sangat teritrial, dan lebih suka sendiri. Secara bersedias, caracal 'ditrain' di Teluk dan India untuk berburu burung.
"Protecting stray cats is a priority, not only because of its vital role in balancing the ecosystem, but also because it brings cultural value and potential as a leading ecotourism in this area," explained Director of Biodiversity Conservation at Emirates Nature-WWF Dr. Andrew Gardner.