Serval

(Felis serval)

lion
 

Shoulder height:

60cm / 23.6in

Weight:

8-13kg / 17.6-28.7lbs

Food:

Mostly rodents, but also birds, reptiles and insects

Habitat:

Prefers open areas with tall grass

Social behaviour:

Generally solitary, but may walk in pairs or family groups

Active:

Predominantly at night

Sightings:

Very rare


A serval is classified as a small cat, but is actually relatively large. They are yellowish in colour and have stunning markings that include both spots and stripes. Their large ears are used for finding their prey in tall grass. They pounce to catch rodents, birds and other small creatures.

Serval are nocturnal, but may be seen in open areas with tall grass very early in the morning.


Back to main mammals page


How to find serval in the Kruger National Park:

Stay at these camps:
Lower Sabie
Orpen/Tamboti/Maroela
Satara

Drive these roads:
H10 tar road
S29 gravel road
S128 gravel road
S106 gravel road

Top tips:
Search for serval in open areas with tall grass. The best area in Kruger is probably the open plains directly north of Lower Sabie.
If you are doing a self-drive, search for serval very early in the morning.

A night drive at any of the above-mentioned camps may produce serval sightings.



© Copyright 2012 go!
Incorrect username or password

Forgot password?

If you register you can:

  • Share your travel stories and tips
  • Upload your photos
  • Talk to other Go readers online
  • Seek advice
  • Save all your web favourites
  • Participate in the Go test panel