The black-footed cat, Felis nigripes, is one of Africa’s smallest and most elusive wild cat species. Native to the arid and semi-arid regions of southern Africa, this nocturnal predator is rarely observed in its natural habitat. Weighing less than two kilograms, its diminutive stature belies its reputation as a highly efficient hunter within the grasslands and scrublands it inhabits.
Primary Prey: A Carnivore’s Menu
The black-footed cat’s diet is almost exclusively carnivorous, focusing on small mammals and birds. Small rodents like gerbils, mice, and shrews form the bulk of their mammalian intake. Ground-dwelling birds, such as larks and pipits, also make up a significant portion of their diet.
While vertebrates dominate, these opportunistic feeders also consume other small creatures. This includes insects like harvester termites, grasshoppers, and moths, as well as small reptiles and spiders. Occasionally, they may target larger prey, such as Cape hares, which can weigh more than the cat itself.
Hunting Techniques and Success
Black-footed cats are primarily nocturnal. They use acute senses of hearing and sight to locate prey in the dark, often traveling 5 to 16 kilometers nightly. Their hunting strategy involves a slow, deliberate stalk, staying low and using cover. They also employ a “stalk and pounce” technique to ambush prey, or wait patiently near rodent burrows.
This species has a hunting success rate of around 60% per attempt, making them one of the most effective feline hunters. Their high metabolic rate requires frequent kills; an average black-footed cat consumes 10 to 14 small animals each night, roughly one vertebrate every 50 minutes.
Dietary Adaptations of a Tiny Hunter
The black-footed cat has a high metabolic rate for its size, which requires a substantial and consistent intake of food. Their small body mass dictates that they must consume a relatively large amount of prey daily to maintain their physiological functions. This constant need for sustenance drives their persistent hunting efforts throughout the night.
An important adaptation to their arid habitat is their ability to derive sufficient moisture directly from the prey they consume. This allows them to survive in environments where freestanding water sources are scarce, although they will drink water if it is available. This combination of a fast metabolism and efficient water acquisition from food highlights their specialized nature as predators in dry landscapes.