Hoffman Estates say this wild cat known as a caracal has been spotted wandering around the village in recent days.
Courtesy of Hoffman Estates Police Department
Hoffman Estates police are warning community members to be on the lookout for a medium-sized wild cat known as a caracal that’s been spotted wandering around a neighborhood and golf course in the village.
Caracals are native to Africa and Asia, where they are considered endangered, and not common to the United States.
It is not known at this time where the animal came from or how it got loose in Hoffman Estates, police said in a Facebook post. It’s been seen in the area of Della Drive and the Hilldale Golf Course, an area east of Barrington Road and between Interstate 90 and Higgins Road.
According to the San Diego Zoo, caracals measure between 24 and 42 inches long, stand about 18 inches tall at the shoulder and can weigh between 13 and 44 pounds. They’re noted for having a sleek, streamlined body, short, reddish-gold coat, and dramatic markings on the face, as well as long, black ear tufts, or tassels, according to the zoo.
Police said village officials are working with local and federal agencies for proper removal of the cat.
Residents should not try to feed the animal and use caution of they come across it. Anyone who knows its whereabouts or its owner should call 911, police said.