- February 01, 2013
Ra (DOB – January 1st 2009) is now a permanent resident here at the jungle. A fun loving, attention seeking feline, he thrives on the attention of the guests.
The Caracal originates from Africa and is often confused as a Lynx, when in reality they are no relation to the Lynx and are more closely related to the African Serval.
These moderate sized cats can jump flat footed 10-12 feet straight up to catch a bird in mid-flight. In fact the ancient Pharoh’s not only worshiped these cats (you can see these cats on Egyptian walls) but had a blood sport where they would have contests to see who’s cat could catch the most birds!
Caracal’s can still purr but their favorite form of communication is to hiss! They will hiss if happy, mad, sad.. you name it!
Raised in a loving and nurturing home, he was relocated to the jungle so that he could do what he does best. Show off!!
When signing petitions, writing your representatives, please look at the big picture. Most of these animals are family members much the same as your dog, cat, bird, horse or what ever your choice of pet may be. A major difference is that the big and lesser cats tend to bond very strongly with their owners. Some so much that when removed have been known to stress and die.
And as in the case of Ra, some would NEVER do well in a sanctuary setting. Ra thrives on human contact. He actively seeks it. To throw this cat into a “hands off”/”no touch” setting would be the end for this beautiful creature.
In the end, when making choices.. put the animals first and understand that there is a big picture and for ever action, there is a reaction. 