This article was originally published on Critter Science.

Often called the desert lynx, the caracal is not actually related to that species of big cat. Their name actually comes from the Turkish word “karakulak” meaning “black ear.” Back in the day, these cats were trained to hunt birds. The very phrase, “To put a cat amongst the pigeons” […]

Thanks for reading! Follow Critterman for more updates and insights.

This article was originally published on Critter Science.

Considered to be the elephant’s and the manatee’s closest living relative, it’s the hyrax. Although much smaller than elephants or manatees, it is their teeth and bone structure that relates them to these much larger cousins. Due to their stable numbers, they are listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. […]

Thanks for reading! Follow Critterman for more updates and insights.