Caracal Captured by a Camera Trap in Aralkum
2026-06-12 11:45:00 / News
The caracal is a rare subspecies with a fragmented distribution range and is considered threatened with extinction. It is listed in the Red Book of Uzbekistan and included in Appendix I of the CITES Convention. Within Uzbekistan, the species occurs on the Ustyurt Plateau and in the lower reaches of the Amu Darya River. Beyond the country's borders, it can be found in Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, northern Iran, and Afghanistan. Its habitats include both mobile and stabilized sand dunes in desert areas, gypsum plains, semi-desert foothills and tugai forests.
During the summer months, the caracal is primarily nocturnal, while in other seasons it may also hunt during the daytime. Its diet consists of hares, rodents, birds, hedgehogs, foxes, reptiles, snakes and arthropods, and occasionally includes ungulates. In some cases, it also feeds on carrion. The species can live for up to 19 years.
For reference, Aralkum National Nature Park was established on 4 March 2022 in the Muynak District of the Republic of Karakalpakstan. The park is home to representatives of 25 animal species, four of which are listed in the Red Book of Uzbekistan.