Jaipur: On the vibrant occasion of Holi, Mr. Sanjay Sharma, the Minister of Forest, Environment & Climate Change, and Science & Technology Department, Government of Rajasthan, shared an exciting and rare photographic record of a Caracal spotted in the Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve. The image, captured during the winter Phase IV survey, marks the first-ever photographic evidence of the elusive wild cat in the reserve.
In a tweet, Mr. Sharma expressed his excitement, writing, “On this vibrant day of Holi, Rajasthan Forest Department is excited to share the first photographic record of Caracal in Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve.”
On this vibrant day of Holi, Rajasthan forest department is excited to share the first photographic record of Caracal in Mukundra hills Tiger Reserve.
— Sanjay Sharma (@Sanjay4India1) March 14, 2025
The winter Phase IV survey of the tiger reserve recorded this camera trap image of Caracal. The strong protection regime of… pic.twitter.com/HqplxM5vCb
The camera trap image showcases the Caracal, a medium-sized wild cat known for its distinctive ear tufts and agile hunting skills. The strong protection regime in Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve has played a key role in safeguarding such elusive species, serving as an umbrella to protect not only tigers but also smaller, rare animals like the Caracal.
Mr. Sharma also extended credit to the dedicated field staff, noting, “Credit to the field staff who protect these habitats sincerely despite festivals or holidays,” acknowledging their hard work and commitment to conservation efforts in the region.