The African Serval

Scientific Name: Leptailrus Serval

Origin of Name: Serval meaning “wolf-deer” in Portuguese

Habitat : Servals are a nocturnal cat living in the wetlands/Savannahs of the middle and southern parts of Africa.

Physical characteristics :

A. 20 - 24 inches tall at the shoulder (males are taller and larger than females)

B. 25 to 40 inches in length

C. Weight - 30 - 40 pounds

D. The tail is 12 - 18 inches long.

E. Color : The background color is gold covered with black spots and accented with horizontal stripes down the back with black stripping around the legs.

F. Facial Identification: A small head and very large ears in comparison to body size. The back of the ears are marked with white oceli(white spots on the back of the ears.)

G. The Serval has long slender legs which enable it to run very fast and leap very high.

HUNTING SKILLS:

A. The African Serval use their sonar type ears to detect the location of their prey. The prey is pounced upon in a leap after being stalked. They have the agility to leap ten feet into the air to capture a bird in flight. The tall grasslands do not pose a threat. Their long legs enable them to see over the top of the tall grass and leap straight up into the air. A giant pounce and another unsuspecting victim

has become dinner for an African Serval.

B. Rodents and small creatures such as, small birds, frogs and even fish can whet a Servals appetite. A Serval enjoys dining on duck and other waterfowl by going straight into the water for the fresh catch of the day.

Life Span:

A. Approximately 18 - 20 years

B. African Servals are preyed upon by larger cats and hyenas. In their native habitat, they are hunted by poachers for their attractive coat. Servals are by no means a threat to humans. History tells us that African Servals were beneficial in protecting the granaries of Egypt and were pets of the wealthy in Europe. They are gaining more popularity today.The African Serval is a truly elegant and gorgeous “wild” animal. Even in a controlled situation they should be handled by a experienced professionals. Many states require a license to own a Serval.

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