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Undetected in the Desert: When threatened, the sand cat relies on its tan coat to blend in with the desert landscape.
 
 


 
 
 
Range: North Africa and southwest Asia
 
 
 

Sand Cat
Felis margarita

The sand cat is equipped for desert life. Large ears radiate heat. Covered with hair, its footpads are insulated from the hot sand. During extreme heat, the sand cat cools off in a burrow. The sand cat does not need to drink often as it gets enough moisture from its prey.

Fact File

Length: 1.3 to 1.9 ft

Weight: 4.4 to 5.5 lbs

Lifespan: Up to 15 yrs

Habitat: Desert

Diet: Small rodents, lizards and insects

Status: Species at Risk (IUCN—Lower risk/near threatened)




 
         
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