Sand cat
Scientific name: Felis margarita
IUCN listed as: Least Concern
Learn before you visit!
Here are some facts about the species – Discover what they eat, find out about their natural habitat, see what they like to do, and more… Set the reading style to suit you too, everyday speak or something aimed towards children.
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Everyday
Diet
Sand cats hunt small mammals, birds, insects, and reptiles in their desert habitat. Their diet is diverse, allowing them to adapt to the scarcity of resources in arid environments.
Sand cats eat small animals like mice, birds, insects, and lizards that live in deserts. They have a varied diet, which means they can find different foods even in places where there isn’t much to eat.
Breeding
Breeding occurs during cooler months, with females giving birth to litters of one to four kittens after a two-month gestation period. They seek sheltered dens in rocky crevices or burrows to protect their young from predators and harsh desert conditions.
When it’s not too hot, sand cat mums have babies, usually between one and four at a time. They find safe places, like holes in rocks, to keep their babies safe from other animals and the hot sun.
Habitat
Sand cats inhabit arid regions across northern Africa and southwestern Asia, favouring open areas with sparse vegetation. They are well-adapted to desert life, with thick fur on their paw pads and large ears to cope with extreme temperatures.
Sand cats live in dry places like deserts in Africa and Asia. They like areas with not too many plants where they can hide and hunt for food. They’re really good at living in places where it’s hot during the day and cold at night.
At the zoo
In UK zoos, sand cats’ enclosures feature sandy substrates and natural hiding spots to replicate their desert habitat, ensuring they feel secure. Their diet consists of a mix of lean meats and supplements, mirroring their wild diet. Enrichment activities, such as scent trails and puzzle feeders, are provided to stimulate their hunting instincts and keep them mentally engaged. Moreover, we collaborate on breeding programmes to support the genetic diversity and long-term sustainability of captive sand cat populations.
In UK zoos, sand cats live in areas with sand and places to hide, just like in the desert where they come from. They eat special food that’s similar to what they would find in the wild, and they also get toys and games to play with, like following smells and solving puzzles, to keep them happy and active. We work together with other zoos to help make sure there are enough sand cats and they stay healthy for a long time.
Behaviour
Primarily nocturnal, sand cats rest during the day and become active at night to hunt. They are solitary animals, maintaining large home ranges to avoid competition. Despite their solitary nature, they communicate through vocalizations and scent marking to establish territories and attract mates.
Sand cats are mostly awake at night. They like to be alone and have big spaces they call home. They talk to each other with sounds and smells to show where they are and to find friends. They’re very clever and can find food and stay safe in the desert.
Fun facts
- Tiny and Cute: Sand cats are the smallest wild cats, perfect for the desert.
- Fluffy Feet: Their paws are like furry slippers, helping them sneak around quietly.
- Nighttime Hunters: They prefer hunting in the dark when it’s cooler.
- Water from Food: They don’t need to drink much water because they get moisture from their meals.
- Hidden Experts: With their sandy fur, they’re pros at blending into their desert surroundings.
- Petite Predators: Sand cats, the smallest of wild felines, thrive in the desert.
- Silent Stalkers: Their furry paws aid in stealthy hunting on the desert sands.
- Nighttime Prowlers: Active after dark, they navigate the desert landscape under cover of night.
- Water-wise: Sand cats extract moisture from their prey, reducing their need for water.
- Desert Chameleons: Their sandy fur camouflages them perfectly in the desert environment.
More animals to discover at our zoo
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