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Khandal, D.
Caracal: A cat that stole the show
2009 Hornbill (April-June): 1-4
Seeing a caracal is a reverie for researchers, dream of wildlifers and an ultimate fantasy of photographers. Many species like the Snow Leopards or Red Panda are equally hard to see. To see a Snow Leopard one has to climb the tall Himalayan mountains in freezing temperatures, while to see a Red Panda one has to overcome the nasty rains and various hurdles associated with a rain forest. Geographically, the areas inhabited by the Caracal are easily approachable, and are a part of the main tourism hubs of India such as Ranthambhore and Sariska. Thousands of tourists, hundreds of vehicles go in these areas every day, yet the caracal remains ever elusive. Some consider the sighting of Caracal as God's grace, while others as luck. Researchers, wildlifers and photographers know that it is not just a matter of persistence or resolute; the caracal is seen only by those whom the caracal wants to see. Recently, I had a fantastic sighting of Caracal family with a kill, after six years of my stay in Ranthambhore, a long wait. the mysterious creature finally showed up!
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