African Golden Cat

Caracal auratus

Conservation Status

Data Deficient

Mammalia · Carnivora · Felidae

About

The African golden cat is a wild cat endemic to the rainforests of West and Central Africa. It is threatened due to deforestation and bushmeat hunting and listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. It is a close relative of both the caracal and the serval. Previously, it was placed in the genus Profelis. Its body size ranges from 61 to 101 cm with a 16 to 46 cm long tail.

Fun Fact

In captivity, they live up to 12 years.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Lives also in cloud forest, bamboo forests, and high moorland habitats.

Diet

Feed on tree hyrax, rodents, but also hunt birds, small monkeys, duikers, young of giant forest hog, and small antelope.

Lifespan

12 years

Threats

Habitat Change
Human Disturbance

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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