With a height of 54-62cm, the Serval is the tallest of the African small cats. This solitary cat is found in much of Africa, from sub-Saharan Africa to the south-east and prefers areas of tall grass, often close to water, in savannah and grasslands.

Servals are not endangered but are considered rare in many areas of their distribution including the whole of South Africa.

The Serval's slim build features a long neck and long legs, prominent ears and a medium length tail. It is extremely athletic and adept at pouncing upon rats, mice and other rodents and birds. Elongated forelimbs are utilised in reaching down into holes of various rodents.

Grass rats and mole rats make up a large portion of the Serval's diet but it may also include birds up to the size of flamingos, snakes, lizards, frogs, fish, insects, and even the young of small to medium sized antelopes. Vegetable matter may also be consumed and includes bananas, avocados and grass.

OUR SERVALS

Nanki
Nanki is outgoing, the most dominant of the three female sisters and loves a new challenge.

Tula
Tula is quiet, cautious and shy but is very affectionate with her keepers. She is the most elegant jumper of the trio.

Morili
Morili is cheeky, loves to play games, is the fluffiest and very loving.

DID YOU KNOW?

• When hunting, the Serval will often pluck birds from mid-air. The agile cat will jump high in the air (up to 3m) and thump its paws down on the bird.
• Large ears are designed to pick up and pin-point the slightest noise enabling them to pick up the frequency of rodent calls and even detect underground movements.
• Cats can see up to six times better than humans in poor light.
• Unlike some cats, the Serval will leap into water if it means it will get a tasty meal.
• Servals are hunted for fur in East Africa and this has had devastating effects on the population. Although now protected, the Serval is undoubtedly still hunted, but in smaller numbers.