Caracal Captured After Being On The Loose In Hoffman Estates

HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL —After urging caution when a wild cat, known as a caracal, was spotted in the area in recent days, the Hoffman Estates Police Department said the animal has been safely captured.

In an update Tuesday afternoon, police said the cat "was hiding under a resident's deck and is unharmed." Police said an animal sanctuary will take custody of the caracal, adding, "The Valley of the Kings Sanctuary and Retreat located in Sharon, Wisconsin is en route to pick him up where we are sure he will have a healthy and happy life far away from Hoffman Estates."

On Monday afternoon, police said the animal was spotted in the area of Della Drive and Hilldale Golf Course in Hoffman Estates.

The cat is a native species to Asia and not common in the U.S., according to a post on the Hoffman Estates Police Department Facebook page. Police were not sure where the animal came from.

The caracal is an internationally protected endangered species, and officials in Hoffman Estates are currently working with local and federal agencies to remove the animal from the village and relocate it to a zoo or wildlife facility where it can receive the proper care it needs, according to authorities.

"We ask that you do not attempt to feed this animal," police said Monday.

"...our first priority is the safety of the residents of Hoffman Estates and the community. If you come across this animal, please use caution. If anyone knows the whereabouts or owner of this animal, please call 911," police said.

MORE ON PATCH

Pet African Wildcat Dies After Escape, Capture In Vernon Hills

Bill Proposes Ban Of African Cats, Other Exotic Pets After Incident

African Serval Cat On The Loose In Illinois, Agencies On The Hunt