Scientific Classification
Scientific Name
Leptailurus serval
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Felidae
Genus
Leptailurus
Species
Leptailurus serval
All About Serval
Description
The serval is a medium-sized wild cat native to Africa. It is known for its slim body, long legs, large ears, and spotted golden coat. This agile hunter is highly skilled at catching prey in grasslands and wetlands.
Appearance
Golden-yellow fur with black spots and stripes, small head, large ears, and short tail.
Size
54–62 cm tall, 67–100 cm long.
Weight
8–18 kg.
Diet
Rodents, birds, frogs, insects, and reptiles.
Range
Servals are found across much of sub-Saharan Africa. Smaller populations also occur in parts of North Africa.
Habitat
Grasslands, wetlands, savannas, and reed-covered areas.
Behavior
Solitary and active during day and night. Excellent hunter with sharp hearing.
Reproduction
Females give birth to 1–4 kittens.
Gestation Period
About 2 to 3 months.
Predators
Hyenas, wild dogs, leopards, and humans.
Threats
Habitat loss, hunting, and wetland destruction.
Lifespan
About 10 years in the wild, up to 20 years in captivity.
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN).
Serval Interesting Facts
- Servals are native to many parts of Africa.
- They can leap over 2 meters (6.5 feet) high to catch birds.
- Their ears can rotate independently to locate prey.
- They are successful hunters nearly half the time.
- Servals are one parent breed of the popular Savannah cat.
