The discovery was made using motion-sensitive camera traps and radio-collaring techniques, bringing the total recorded number of caracals in the region to three. Locally referred to as a desert lynx, the species is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Conservation Act, granting it the highest level of legal protection.
Historically widespread across Rajasthan and Gujarat, the caracal population has suffered a drastic decline of more than 95 percent. Habitat loss, fragmentation, and retaliatory killings have been identified as the primary causes behind this sharp reduction. According to surveys conducted by the Wildlife Institute of India, only around 50 individuals of the species remain across the country.
The Wildlife Institute of India is currently undertaking a detailed scientific study to examine the species’ behaviour, movement patterns, and ecological dynamics. Parallelly, the Wildlife Trust of India has initiated a pilot project aimed at engaging local communities in conservation efforts and mitigating human-wildlife conflict.
Forest officials reported that camera traps installed at select locations have produced encouraging results despite their limited deployment. Additionally, one caracal has been fitted with a radio collar to monitor its movement, habitat utilisation, and proximity to human settlements.
Deputy Conservator of Forest Kumar Shubham stated that continuous monitoring through advanced techniques is providing valuable insights into the species’ behavioural patterns and habitat preferences. Following these initial findings, authorities have expanded surveillance by installing additional camera traps in Ghotaru and other parts of the Thar Desert to assess the species’ broader habitat range. A comprehensive conservation strategy will be formulated upon completion of the ongoing study.
To address human-wildlife conflict, the Wildlife Institute of India has introduced a “goat bank” model. Under this system, a community-managed pool of goats is established. In cases where livestock is lost due to caracal predation, affected families are compensated with a goat after verification, and are later required to return a young goat to sustain the initiative.
Experts have identified the Ramgarh-Shahgarh landscape as a suitable habitat for caracals due to its dry grasslands, low human population density, and adequate prey availability. However, the movement of nomadic herders in the region occasionally leads to interactions between humans and wildlife.
Regular evidence, including pugmarks recorded over the past year, indicates that the region could serve as a critical refuge for one of India’s last remaining caracal populations. Officials have expressed confidence that a combination of scientific research, modern monitoring methods, and active community participation will play a crucial role in ensuring the long-term conservation of this rare and endangered species.
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