Authorities in Fujairah have successfully captured a wild cat that was recently seen roaming a residential area close to the mountains, reported Khaleej Times. The Fujairah Environment Authority sprung into action after clips of the caracal, a medium-sized wild cat, went viral on social media last Monday.
The owner of the animal, a local UAE citizen, has cooperated fully with the teams, Aseela Moalla, Director of the Fujairah Environment Agency, told Khaleej Times. The owner handed over the caracal, admitting he was unaware of the legality of owning such an animal. Three of their team members were able to secure the wild cat without any aggression from the animal, Moalla added.
The caracal was found near the location where the original video was taken. It has since been relocated to a zoo that can provide the necessary care and environment for its well-being. The owner faced a significant fine, with penalties for keeping a dangerous animal without proper registration ranging from Dh10,000 to Dh500,000.
Moalla emphasized the protective status of caracals, which are classified in the red category under the CITES agreement and are safeguarded by both local and federal laws against possession or trade. Caracals are native to the Hajar mountain range and play a crucial role in our ecosystem, she explained.
For residents who might encounter wild animals, the authority advises staying calm and not aggravating the animal, as it is less likely to attack if not threatened. Initial reports misidentified the caracal as a lynx due to its similar appearance to the ‘desert lynx’, though it is not actually related to lynxes.