They are also known for being snake hunters, which they kill with a rapid blow to the head that stuns, and then administer the death bite to the neck. Sand Cats will also cover large kills with sand and return later to feed. Because the religious belief about this cat is that it was the companion of the Prophet Mohammed, they are not hunted as livestock raiders when they kill chickens. Sadly, this little cat still faces the threat of being collected for the pet trade, or for being hunted for sport while they are laying out sunning themselves. It is unknown at this time to what extent, if any, the fires and bombs of the Gulf War affected the Sand Cat population.
Sand cats have a long history of living in North American zoos, but have been poorly managed.
Two populations exist, one that is hybridized and another derived from an Israeli population. The TAG recommends an SSP with a target population of 80 individuals, all to consist of F. m. harrisoni, the race from the Arabian peninsula. There are 5 living on Easy Street. Information reprinted With Permission from the IUCN Wild Cats Book For more information on the Sand Cat look for Pat Quillen of S.O.S. in California. Search our site.