File:Caracal close up - DPLA - 621f892ac8b42303ee34647c7be2ff70.jpg

35 mm slide; color. Scientific Classification: Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Chordata; Class: Mammalia; Order: Carnivora; Family: Felidae; Genus: Felis; Genus species: Felis caracal. Animal characteristics: Head-Body Length: 55-75 cm; Height: 43 cm; Weight: 16-23 kg; Identification: The caracal has a reddish-brown to yellow-gray coat, white undersides, tufted ears, and long legs; Habitat: Savannas, open plains, semi deserts, sand deserts; Diet: Carnivore: rodents, small mammals, birds, reptiles; Reproduction: The gestation period for caracals is 70-75 days long. One to four cubs are born and are weaned six months after birth; Social Structure: Caracals are usually solitary; Behavior: Most activity occurs at twilight; Status: No special status; Interesting Facts: Possibly the best hunter known, caracals have amazing speed, agility, balance, and are expert jumpers. They can hurl themselves several feet off the ground to snatch small birds from the air and are swift enough to catch several birds in one leap.