On the final day of a two-week photo adventure in Namibia, four members of our group opted to take part in an activity at N/a’an ku sê Lodge called Caracal Experience. Before our trip, I read about the activity offerings there and was very enthusiastic about the opportunity to walk with a caracal. This activity was at the top of my list and fortunately, three other group members wanted to participate as well. The experience was exceptional. Misty the caracal was a joy to meet, watch and photograph. Having the opportunity to spend a little time with her far exceeded my expectations.

About Misty the Caracal

Misty the caracal arrived at N/a’an ku sê Foundation Wildlife Sanctuary as a tiny kitten owing to conflict with humans. At the Sanctuary, she was hand-raised by humans. As a result, she cannot be on her own in the wild. Wild cats need to be taught to hunt and survive by their mothers. Without the benefit of parental upbringing, wild cats have little chance of surviving in the bush on their own.

The Walk

The experience began by a guide bringing Misty and the participants to a starting location for the walk. He perfectly described her as being friendly and sweet. He also gave a bit of background on how she came to the N/a’an ku sê Foundation Wildlife Sanctuary. Rules for the walk were pretty simple. In a nutshell, Misty leads the way. We follow her to wherever she takes us.

Misty picked the direction and off we went. She was clearly comfortable around new people and in the open environment. She tended to alternate between casually walking and trotting, depending on what caught her attention. Photographing Misty was a bit of a challenge. She was on the move. We would try to anticipate where she would go so that we could move into a good position for photos. Her path took her through the bush, along a dirt road, into the grass, and up a tree. She would pause to investigate anything that looked or smelled interesting. A hole, a stick, a bush, a tree, the prior passage of other animals or birds.

Misty did not stay in any one spot very long. A clump of grass made for a good face rub, a short rest, and back scratch.

A tree worthy of climbing provided for a survey of the area for a few moments.

A quick cruise through some dried grass and bushes to exit on the opposite side and continue on.

A jaunt along a dirt road, weaving off the road to inspect something and back on again. Finding an interesting piece of bark to examine. Scratching an itch.

Eventually, Misty made her way to a building. She explored around it while the guide retrieved the vehicle. Our time with Misty came to a close as we all boarded the vehicle and headed back to the lodge.

Watching Misty and our guide demonstrated that they have a strong bond. He spoke softly and sweetly to her. When the time came to end the walk, Misty knew what to do and quickly entered her carrier for the drive back.

This was my first experience ever to see a caracal, let alone walk with one. Misty is an incredibly beautiful cat and a joy to spend time with. Observing her explorations and behavior was interesting and a real treat. Everyone in our group came away happy and felt that the experience with Misty was exceptional. As my favorite author, Jodi Taylor, writes “It’s been an honor and a privilege.”

More Information

N/a’an ku sê Foundation’s mission statement is: “To conserve the land, cultures and wildlife of Namibia and rescue species threatened by an ever-shrinking habitat.” For more information check out their website: N/a’an ku sê Foundation.

About the Images

Photographs included in this post were shot using a Sony Alpha 1 camera and Tamron 35-150mm f/2-2.8 DI III VXD lens.