CATS! WILD TO MILD | CATS FROM A TO Z

Sand cat
Felis margarita

Size: emales 1.4-3 kg (3-6.6 lbs) males 2.1-3.4 kg (4.6-7.5 lbs).

Habitat: Sandy and stony desert.

Primary prey: Small rodents and snakes.

Conservation Status: Stable.

Principal threats: Excessive hunting.

Distribution: Desert regions of North Africa and southwestern Asia.

Notable Features: The sand cat is well-adapted to its desert environment. It has thick fur on the undersides of its paws to protect it from hot sand and gets all the water it requires from its prey. Sand cats are nocturnal, resting by day in burrows that theydig or modify.


Produced by the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County.
© Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County Foundation

This page was made possible by a grant from Friskies Pet Care Corporation and the National Science Foundation.

All photographic images contained within these web pages ARE COPYRIGHTED and may not be reproduced, or utilized in any manner, without the express written consent the owner.

Page design by Jim Angus