Caracal
wildlife of Namibia
Introduction: The name caracal (Felis caracal) is derived from a Turkish word 'garah-gulak' or 'black ear'. They were once tamed and trained for bird hunting in Iran and India. They were put into arenas containing a flock of pigeons, and wagers were made as to how many the cat would take down, hence the origination of the expression 'to put a cat amongst the pigeons'. Apparently it is capable of leaping into the air and knocking down 10-12 birds at one time!
Caracal are associated with open country and open savannah woodland areas and in particular scrubby, arid habitats. They are adept tree climbers, that become solitary straight after mating. They can be freely observed at Okonjima Bush Camp, an Africat concern.
Distribution: Caracal occur widely in Namibia, except for in the Namib Desert. They are difficult to spot due to their nocturnal and highly secretive manner.
Diet: They prefer birds, rodents, and other small mammals, but will take whatever is available.
Colouring: This small cat has dense short reddish-brown fur. The under parts of chin and body are white, and a narrow black line runs from the corner of the eye to the nose. Its ears are long, narrow and tipped with long black tufts of black hair.
Breeding: The young may be born at various times of the year. A gestation period of 69-78 days is reported, and three young per litter are the norm (up to five kittens are possible). Litters may be born and hidden in abandoned burrows, ant-bear holes, rock crevices or hollow trees.
Size: Caracals are more robustly built than their close relatives, servals. Adults males weigh up to 17kg with the female caracal weighing around 12kg. They stand at a shoulder height of 45cm.
Babson House at the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF)
Lodging located on the property used by the CCF. Excellent option if you want to learn about cheetah's and their conservation
C'est Si Bon Hotel
Mid sized hotel in Otjiwarongo offering both lodge & hotel style accommodation. All the usual facilities including a pool, air-conditioned rooms and a restaurant
Erindi Game Reserve
A large, well stocked, privately owned game reserve. Excellent for sightings of wild dogs and other endangered species
Frans Indongo Lodge
Situated to the north of the Waterberg Plateau (which is unusual as most lodges are toward the south) this highly recommenced lodge offers spacious comfortable rooms and plenty of activities
Mount Etjo Lodge
One of the oldest lodges in Namibia, Mount Etjo has seen several historic events including the signing of an agreement pivotal to Namibia gaining independence. Still offers good quality accommodation and game drives
Okonjima
Okonjima Main Camp is the oldest and most affordable of the lodges at the AfriCat foundation.
Okonjima Bush Camp
Without a doubt one of the best lodges in Namibia, add leopard and cheetah viewing to stunning accommodation and well prepared meals and this place is a complete winner
Okonjima Bush Suite
A private two bed room suite, comes complete with own swimming pool, lounge and kitchen. Private chef and meals can be arranged or guests can visit Bush Camp.
Okonjima Villa
Large private complex, includes all modern luxuries. Enjoyed by international movie stars and corporate moguls - but available to any group wanting to stay!
Omaha Guest Farm
A 5 bedroom establishment located on a working Namibian cattle farm at the base of Mount Etjo
Waterberg Rest Camp
The NWR run camp situated on the slopes of the plateau. Fairly standard and slightly overpriced accommodation, the old police station which has been converted to a restaurant is a scenic (if not taste) highlight.
Waterberg Wilderness Plateau Lodge
On the same property aw the Waterberg Wilderness Lodge but situated higher up the mountain offering excellent views
