Serval

Identification

The serval is a slender, medium-sized African cat standing 54–62 cm tall at the shoulder and weighing approximately 9–18 kg. Its most striking features are its small head, large ears with a distinctive white horizontal band, and exceptionally long legs—the longest of any cat relative to body size. The coat is golden-yellow to buff, extensively marked with black spots and stripes that vary considerably in size. A white chin, spotted cheeks and forehead, and a short black-tipped tail complete the distinctive appearance.

Range & Habitat

The serval is widespread throughout sub-Saharan Africa and is the sole member of the genus Leptailurus. Three subspecies are recognised: the nominate subspecies in Southern Africa, L. s. constantina in Central and West Africa, and L. s. lipostictus in East Africa. The species inhabits grasslands, wetlands, moorlands and bamboo thickets across its range, and occurs in many protected areas where hunting is either prohibited or regulated.

Behaviour & Diet

The serval is a solitary carnivore that is active both day and night. It hunts primarily rodents—especially vlei rats—along with small birds, frogs, insects and reptiles, using its acute hearing to locate prey in tall grass. The cat employs a distinctive hunting technique, leaping over 2 metres above the ground to land on prey with its forefeet, then delivering a killing bite to the neck or head.

Both males and females establish highly overlapping home ranges of 10 to 32 km², which they mark with feces and saliva. Mating occurs at varying times depending on location, typically once or twice yearly. After a two to three month gestation, females give birth to one to four kittens. Young are weaned at one month and begin hunting independently at six months, leaving their mother around 12 months of age.

Best Time & Places to See It

Servals are widespread across sub-Saharan Africa in protected areas, making them accessible in many national parks and reserves throughout the continent. As both diurnal and nocturnal hunters, they can be spotted at various times, though early morning and late afternoon often provide the best viewing opportunities when they are actively hunting in grasslands and wetlands. Their preference for open habitats makes them more visible than many other wild cat species.

Photography Tips

The serval's striking spotted coat, large ears and slender build make it a photogenic subject. Its characteristic hunting leap—bounding over 2 metres to catch prey—presents a dramatic photo opportunity, though patience is required. The long legs and elongated body are best captured with wider framing to show the cat's elegant proportions. Early morning and late afternoon light will enhance the golden-yellow coat and highlight the contrast of black markings. Photograph servals in their preferred grassland and wetland habitats to capture their natural hunting behaviour and habitat preference.