23 Oct 2025
The story of our peninsula caracals is both hopeful and cautionary
On 23 October 2025, Prof Jacqueline Bishop, an evolutionary ecologist and conservation biologist with the Urban Caracal Project (UCP), gave a presentation on the urban caracal population of the Cape Peninsula at the Gordon's Bay Yacht Club (GBYC).
In the lead-up to her talk, the Bolander published this article about it.
GBYC welcomes an audience to enjoy talks, commencing against the backdrop of spectacular sunsets.
Prof Bishop's presentation outlines the impressive work carried out by the UCP in monitoring the caracals of the Peninsula to assess their survival along the urban edges, where they have been confined for years. With the local extinction of the Cape leopard, caracals have taken on the role of the top predator. Although they have shown remarkable adaptability, their existence within a human-dominated environment presents challenges and poses risks to their safety and health.
The reason this talk is so powerful lies largely in the practical guidelines it offers for protecting caracal populations both on the Peninsula and in other regions they inhabit. Research by the UCP highlights the effects of human actions and development on caracals. Chemicals and pollutants from power generation, industry, and agriculture accumulate in their bodies, particularly since they are apex predators and are therefore affected by entire food chains below them. Although we may not be able to instantly alter systemic human practices that harm the environment, we can make a difference by being mindful of the poisons and pesticides we purchase.
Unfortunately, the main cause of caracal deaths on the Peninsula is vehicle collisions when they cross busy roads, which often serve as their only thoroughfares between mountains and protected areas. Knowing this, we can raise awareness by reducing speed, staying alert for wildlife, and being particularly careful in areas marked by bright (guerrilla) signs indicating hotspots for caracal sightings or road fatalities. We have the power to be more mindful of the Peninsula caracals.
On a positive note, the caracals of the Peninsula are not considered endangered, despite facing numerous risks and challenges. It is crucial, however, to ensure their well-being is safeguarded and to educate the public on how to coexist with caracals in a respectful manner.
SmallTalX is expanding, with this being the third talk hosted at the Gordon's Bay Yacht Club. If attendees appreciate each session and gain insights into different aspects of the environment and how to interact with it more thoughtfully, then SmallTalX has achieved its purpose. Even better, if the booking process is simplified and the customer experience is smooth and enjoyable!
We are eagerly anticipating Prof Bishop's visit to the Welcome Glen Farm House in February 2026 to present on this topic, right on the peninsula where the caracals, the stars of the show, reside. We look forward to seeing more minds transformed and micro-behaviors altered. Our everyday actions are important. See you soon!