Caracals are incredible creatures, but most people don’t know much about them.
These cats sport unique black tufts on their ears that sets them apart from all other felines. What really makes this species fascinating, though, is their extraordinary hunting ability.
In this video from the Smithsonian Channel, a flock of social weavers serve as prey for the prowling caracal. Caracal ears are controlled by 20 muscles – compared to the measly six ear muscles in humans.
This excess of muscles in caracals allows them to move their ears independently of each other, the better for hearing. Their ear canals are even proportionally longer than humans and dogs, even more helpful in hearing and seeking out prey.
But that’s not the only tool in the caracal’s arsenal. It’s insane camouflage ability allows it to sneak up on its unsuspecting prey. Even more amazing, their foot pads are specifically designed to promote their sneak attack – specialized hairs between the padding in their feet allows them to silently stalk their prey.
By this point, the caracal is a few feet away from prey and the prey is none the wiser. She takes off – utilizing her powerful hind legs. Many of the social weavers make it without a scratch. Unfortunately, the slap of the caracal injures a weaver and it can finally enjoy the benefits of a full meal.
Watch the entire video here:
This isn’t the first time we’ve seen something like this. Watch another caracal hunt a bird in the video below.
