Protecting the Caracals of Chapman’s Peak Drive

Chapman’s Peak Drive: A Scenic Masterpiece

Chapman’s Peak Drive, located in the heart of Cape Town, South Africa, is a winding route beloved for its unparalleled scenic beauty. Visitors and locals are drawn to its breathtaking vistas of sky, land, and sea, which captivate all those who venture down its path.

Caracals on the Drive

Apart from its stunning panoramas, Chapman’s Peak Drive is also home to Cape Town’s favorite regal ‘rooikats’ or caracals. These elusive feline creatures grace the route with their presence, displaying their long tufted ears and creamy underbellies. Recently, a charming family of a female caracal and her two kittens has been spotted along the roadside several times, leading the Urban Caracal Project to suspect that their den is hidden somewhere nearby.

About the Urban Caracal Project

The Urban Caracal Project is a significant conservation initiative operating under the Institute for Communities and Wildlife in Africa (iCWild) at the University of Cape Town. Its primary objective is to safeguard biodiversity through research and conservation efforts. The project implores travelers to drive cautiously along Chapman’s Peak Drive to protect the enchanting caracal family and keep them safe.

Supporting the Urban Caracal Project

Mitigating threats to these beautiful creatures is essential, and the Urban Caracal Project relies exclusively on donations and grant support. These funds cover a wide range of needs, such as GPS-collars, caracal tracking efforts, genetic analyses, supplies, pesticide and disease testing, health assessments, and more. Such resources play a crucial role in preserving the caracal’s habitat and promoting their well-being.

Currently, the project’s expenses are focused on supporting the work of PhD student Gabriella Leighton, who is completing her research on disease testing for urban caracals at the University of Cape Town. Every contribution makes a significant difference, and 100% of donations are allocated directly to the project.

Donating to the Urban Caracal Project

If you wish to make a donation to the Urban Caracal Project, you can do so through the Standard Bank of South Africa Limited, using the provided bank details. Remember to include an abbreviated donor name and donation purpose in the bank reference field. After making a deposit or electronic payment, please notify the project by email at [email protected] and [email protected], explaining the purpose of your donation.

Reporting Sightings or Roadkill

To report roadkill caracals in the Cape Town area or offer sightings, contact Dr. Gabriella Leighton at [email protected] or call 079 837 8814.

Preserving the Balance

In conclusion, the enchanting caracal family along Chapman’s Peak Drive serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between the urban environment and wildlife. Through efforts like the Urban Caracal Project and support from the community, we can preserve this delicate balance and ensure the continued existence of these regal creatures.