Although this cat’s range extends from central Asia across Africa, it is seldom seen. As such, this footage of an African wildcat at play is all the more special.
Peet van Schalkwyk submitted this entertaining footage to Latest Sightings.
Domestic ancestor
Peet’s video begins with a view of what, at first glance, looks like a domestic cat. In fact, it is the ancestor of many domestic species, first tamed about 10,000 years ago.
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It is a young African wildcat. As these animals are typically nocturnal, the sighting is already very special. However, the best is yet to come.
Instead of hiding away, like they usually do in daylight, this youngster seems to be in a very playful mood. Although we can’t see what it finds so entertaining, it paws at it playfully, showing the agility for which cats are famous.
Change in posture
Subsequently, the wildcats’ behaviour changes as it crouches down. As it does, its eyes focus on something hidden behind the fallen branches in the foreground.
Initially, it is unclear what it has spotted. Could it be potential prey? Or perhaps something else to play with?
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Come play with me
Eyes focused intently, the young cat seems to be showing taunting behaviour. However, when it raises its tail, we know that its intentions are friendly, suggesting an invitation to play.
Moments later, a second wildcat accepts the invitation when it bursts from its hiding place. It would appear that these are sibling kittens, enjoying some play time while Mum is away.
Subsequently, the pair engages in a brief bout of sparring, showing off the reflexes and speed for which the species is renowned. Activities like this help sharpen their reflexes and practice hunting skills.
Although they occasionally hunt small antelopes and livestock, small reptiles and mammals, as well as birds and insects, make up the bulk of their diet.
Up to three wildcat kittens are born after a 60-day gestation period. They learn to hunt from three months, becoming independent at six months of age.
From social to solitary
No sooner does the pair’s game begin than it is over when one of the kittens runs off. The other cat looks somewhat dejected as his playmate runs off.
However, his self-pity doesn’t last long. With no one to play with, he returns to amusing himself by juggling small objects on the ground.
As adults, African wildcats are strictly solitary creatures. As such, this youngster may as well get used to keeping itself amused.
A male wildcat’s territory will normally encompass two to three female territories. Males and females only socialise briefly for mating, with the male playing no further parenting roles.
Sadly, due to interbreeding with domestic cats, very few purebred African wildcats are thought to exist.