Successful Serval Re-introduction at Phinda

Conservation Corporation Africa (andBEYOND) is delighted to announce the successful release of eight servals onto Phinda Private Game Reserve in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal. These felines were brought in from the Moholoholo Rehabilitation Centre (near Hoedspruit in the Limpopo Province) in November 2006 in an effort to increase the density of this once-hunted species back onto the Reserve. This also provides andBEYOND’s guests with a better chance of viewing these elusive cats whilst on game drive.

Two male and six female servals were protected within enclosed bomas to allow them sufficient time to adapt to their new surroundings. Phinda’s guides were mystified when some of the servals managed to escape the boma within the first few days, however they have now settled and made Phinda their new home. Guests have been reporting regular sightings of these extraordinary animals, with one particular sighting that lasted an hour. The remaining servals in the boma will be collared to enable them to be monitored for research purposes. Once this has been successfully completed, Phinda’s guides will also ensure the ‘escapees’ are also collared.

Simon Nayler, Phinda’s Reserve Manager, states that “the serval is one of eight cat species found in Southern Africa and even though the larger species (lion, leopard and cheetah) are well studied, there is little known about the smaller species especially the serval. We hope that the introduction of these unique cats onto the Phinda land will delight guests and allow us to learn as much as possible about this fascinating species in the process.”

This collaring serves as an opportunity for Phinda’s team to keep a close eye on the species to gain key scientific information about the social structure, behavioural patterns and territories covered by these mammals. Little is known about the serval and there is hope that this will open a door to find out much more about this fascinating and complex cat.

Quick facts about servals: The serval is a medium-sized cat. Adults stand at approximately 60 cm (shoulder height), with males weighing up to 14 kg and females up to 10 kg. Typically solitary animals, many servals do actually pair up, especially when breeding. Their home range territories cover at least 10 km2, with slight overlap occurring among neighbouring individuals. Servals have long legs and an elongated neck enabling them to see over the long grasses. Their large ears assist in locating prey that is out of sight and pinpointing the movement of prey in the grass. Prey is captured either with a pounce with both feet or with a hammer-like blow with one paw. Servals are able to launch themselves approximately 3 m into the air after fleeing birds and grasshoppers. They feed mainly on birds and insects; however there have been reports of servals killing and eating small antelope. The gestation period is 68 to 72 days, with one to three cubs being born in sheltered areas on the ground.

Posted: Mammals by Wildwatch Editor, Date: 6 June 2007