Mammal

serval Facts

Leptailurus serval

MammalCarnivore

The serval (Leptailurus serval) is a wild small cat native to Africa. It is widespread in sub-Saharan countries, where it inhabits grasslands, wetlands, moorlands and bamboo thickets.

Diet: The serval is a carnivore that preys on rodents, particularly vlei rats, shrews, small birds, hares, frogs, insects, and reptiles, and also feeds on grass that can facilitate digestion or act as an emetic.
Lifespan: Up to 22.4 years (maximum recorded longevity)

serval Facts at a Glance

The serval (Leptailurus serval) is a wild small cat native to Africa. It is widespread in sub-Saharan countries, where it inhabits grasslands, wetlands, moorlands and bamboo thickets.

It belongs to the family Felidae in the order Carnivora. This profile is designed as a concise starting point; the source names below document the review basis.

What Do servals Eat?

servals have a carnivore diet that includes The serval is a carnivore that preys on rodents, particularly vlei rats, shrews, small birds, hares, frogs, insects, and reptiles, and also feeds on grass that can facilitate digestion or act as an emetic.. The food available in their environment shapes how they find, hunt, forage for, or receive meals.

serval Conservation Status

serval is listed here as Least Concern. Protecting habitat, maintaining healthy prey or food sources, and reducing human pressure are important parts of conserving wild populations.

Quick facts

Diet: Carnivore
Lifespan: Up to 22.4 years (maximum recorded longevity)
Weight: 11,999.97 g

Fun facts

During the hot midday, they rest or groom themselves in the shade of bushes and grasses.
Servals might be active for a longer time on cool or rainy days.
The serval is active both in the day and at night; activity might peak in early morning, around twilight, and at midnight.