The serval is a fascinating mid-sized cat native to the savannahs and various other habitats of sub-Saharan Africa. Known for its distinctive appearance, the serval is the only cat species that is both striped and spotted. One of the most notable features of the serval is its large ears, which make up a significant portion of its body size. These oversized ears are exceptional at picking up high-frequency sounds, allowing the serval to hunt small prey such as rodents, birds, and reptiles. With its long, slender legs, the serval can jump up to 7 feet into the air, enabling it to catch birds mid-flight—a truly remarkable ability!

In the wild, servals are solitary animals, often prowling the tall grasses of the savannahs. While they are still considered common in their range, populations have started to decline. This is mainly due to the conversion of natural habitats (savannahs and wetlands) into agricultural land and increased hunting for their fur. These challenges highlight the importance of conservation efforts to protect their habitats and ensure their survival.

Meet Malika: Our Resident Serval
At the zoo, we care for a female serval named Malika. Malika is an active and curious individual who enjoys a variety of enriching activities that keep her both physically and mentally stimulated. We feed her a special meat-based carnivore diet and provide knucklebones weekly to promote good dental health.

For enrichment, Malika loves to sharpen her claws on new logs, play with a wide range of boomer balls, and explore hide tubes and boxes. She is especially fond of new scents, such as catnip and coffee, which add an extra layer of excitement to her environment. Additionally, Malika appreciates spending time with her keepers, as she is always eager for attention and interaction.