Lynx hunting in South Africa

Lynx is an alternative name commonly used to describe a Caracal and not to be confused with the North American Lynx. In Dutch (Afrikaans) they are called a “Rooikat” which is directly translated means red cat and named after their reddish-coloured coat. The true Lynx on the other hand have spotted or blotched coats. These cats have long black tufts of hair on the ends of their ears. Lynx are medium-sized cats and able to take down prey the size of an Impala. They are also well known for their acrobatic capture of birds whilst in flight, sometimes leaping as high as 3 metres (9 ft) off the ground. In most parts of South Africa, they are classified as vermin, especially in the sheep farming areas. Numerous outfitters arrange Lynx hunts on sheep farms where hounds men with dog packs are used to bay these cats. These exciting hunts require a certain degree of fitness. Lynx (Caracal) are listed as a species of least concern by the IUCN.