Caracal Hunting South Africa
Hunt Africa's Elusive Lynx
About the Caracal
The caracal (Caracal caracal) is a medium-sized wild cat weighing between 8 and 19 kilograms. It is immediately recognisable by its sleek, reddish-gold coat, long legs, and distinctive black-tufted ears — the feature from which its name derives (from the Turkish karakulak, meaning “black ear”). Caracals are powerfully built for their size, with strong hindquarters that allow them to leap up to three metres vertically to snatch birds from the air.
These cats are solitary, territorial, and primarily nocturnal or crepuscular. They feed on small to medium-sized prey including hares, rodents, birds, small antelope such as steenbok and duiker, and occasionally domestic livestock — which has made them a problem animal on farms throughout southern Africa.
Caracals are found across a wide range of habitats, from semi-desert to dense bushveld, but their secretive nature means that most people who live in caracal country have never seen one. Their ability to remain invisible in relatively open terrain is remarkable.
Caracal Hunting Methods — Calling & Hound Hunting
Caracal hunting is almost exclusively opportunistic. These animals are too secretive and unpredictable for dedicated hunting methods to be consistently effective. The most common scenarios in which caracals are taken include:
- Opportunistic encounters: While hunting other species, a caracal may be spotted crossing a road, sitting in grass, or flushed from cover. These encounters are brief, and the hunter must be ready to take a quick shot.
- Night hunting from blinds: Caracals occasionally visit bait stations set for other nocturnal species such as bushpig. When hunting at night, there is always a chance that a caracal will appear.
- Calling: Predator calls mimicking the distress cries of rabbits or small prey can occasionally attract a caracal within range, particularly during the breeding season. This method requires patience and is far from guaranteed.
Because of the opportunistic nature of this hunt, we recommend that visiting hunters notify their professional hunter at the start of the safari that they are interested in a caracal. This ensures that every possible opportunity is recognised and acted upon.
What Is a Trophy Caracal? — Skull & Full-Body Mount
A caracal makes an exceptionally beautiful trophy. The rich, reddish-gold coat, distinctive ear tufts, and graceful feline form are stunning in a full-body mount. Life-size mounts in a crouching or stalking pose are the most popular and create an eye-catching centrepiece in any trophy room.
Flat skin rugs are also an option, though the full-body mount best showcases the caracal’s athletic proportions and striking colouration. Skull size is the official measurement method for record purposes.
Current caracal trophy fees are listed on our South Africa Trophy Price List. Caracal is a highly sought-after predator trophy and requires a special permit.
Caracal Shot Placement — Shoulder Shot on a Small Predator
For a visual overview of shot placement across all species, see our South Africa Shot Placement Guide. The caracal is a small, quick target, and shot placement must be precise. The recommended aiming point is the centre of the shoulder on a broadside animal, placing the bullet through the heart and lungs. Due to the small size of the animal, headshots should be avoided — the margin for error is too small and risks damaging the trophy.
Recommended calibers are .22 centrefire (such as .223 Remington or .22-250) up to .243 Winchester. These flat-shooting calibers offer the accuracy needed for a small, often fast-moving target. Use quality expanding ammunition to ensure humane terminal performance without excessive pelt damage.
Best Time to Hunt Caracal in South Africa
Caracal can be hunted year-round in Limpopo, but calling is most productive during the cooler months from April through September. In winter, caracals are more active during daylight hours and respond more aggressively to distress calls. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best window for calling before full darkness.
Caracal hunting is almost always added opportunistically to an existing plains game safari — a dedicated caracal concession is rarely needed as they are widespread across suitable habitat. Combine with jackal for a predator safari double, or ask about adding a caracal permit to any of our hunting packages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are my realistic chances of taking a caracal?
Honest answer: a caracal is never guaranteed. These are genuinely elusive animals. However, on a week-long safari at Gaspare Spanio Safaris, there is a reasonable chance of at least one sighting, particularly if you are also hunting at night from blinds. Making your professional hunter aware of your interest from day one maximises your chances.
Is the caracal endangered?
No. The caracal is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN across its range. In South Africa, caracals are abundant and are classified as a problem animal in many farming areas due to livestock predation. Regulated hunting is a recognised management tool that supports human-wildlife coexistence.
Can I add a caracal to my existing safari booking?
Yes. Because caracal hunting is opportunistic, it can be added to any existing safari package at Gaspare Spanio Safaris. Simply inform us when booking, and your professional hunter will keep a lookout throughout your stay. A trophy fee is payable only if a caracal is successfully taken.
Want the chance at one of Africa’s most beautiful and elusive predators? Contact Gaspare Spanio Safaris to discuss adding a caracal to your upcoming safari. Our Limpopo property offers some of the best opportunities in the region for this prized trophy.
Hunters who pursue Caracal also enjoy these species:
- Jackal Hunting South Africa
- Baboon Hunting South Africa
- African Civet Hunting South Africa
- Bushpig Hunting South Africa
View all huntable species at Gaspare Spanio Safaris.
