EAD Spots Rare Arabian Caracal at Abu Dhabi’s Jebel Hafeet

By: Norhan Mahmoud 

CAIRO, Feb. 23 (SEE)- For the first time in 35 years, the Environmental Agency- Abu Dhabi (EAD) has spotted a straying Arabian caracal at Jebel Hafeet National Park in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi- the United Arab Emirates’s Capital.

Through a network of more than 45 cameras, the observed male caracal was monitored by the agency 24/7.

A caracal or “Al-Washaq,” as it is called in Arabic, is a medium-sized, sand-colored cat breed with elongated, tufted black ears. And just like your average cat, a caracal meows, hisses and growls. 

Despite being a nightly animal, a caracal hunts birds, rodents and little mammals during cold seasons in day light. The secretive cat is also recognized for its ability to endure living for long times without drinking water. 

Such discovery shed light on the vitality of preserving wildlife habitats in Abu Dhabi, motivating the agency personnels to expand its monitoring to find out more about the existence of the cat breed that was considered “Extinct in the Wild” as a result of habitat demolition and illegal hunting in the Arabian Peninsula.  

"The conservation of Abu Dhabi’s local biopersity and protected areas has always been a key priority for the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi," said Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Acting Secretary-General at EAD. 

“The agency will continue its efforts in maintaining and monitoring local wildlife and natural ecosystems that will help to preserve the environment for future generations, and invite the public to join us in this endeavour."

In 2017, Jebel Hafeet- Abu Dhabi’s lonely mountain- has been recognized as a National Park and a year later it was listed as one of Sheikh Zayed Network of Protected Areas. 

Historically, Caracals were presented as gifts by Emperors of China’s Yuan and Ming Dynasties. Besides, as part of ancient Egypt’s religious beliefs, caracal sculptures were placed in tombs to safeguard the pharaohs as they await resurrection!