Serval
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Serval | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Mammalia |
| Order: | Carnivora |
| Family: | Felidae |
| Genus: | Leptailurus |
| Species: | L. serval |
The serval is a species of wild cat that lives in Africa. It is the highest jumper of all cats relative to its body size. It feeds mostly on rodents, such as mice and rats, although it has been known to catch birds while they are flying in the air. Using its spectacular jumping ability, the serval leaps into the air and bats the bird with its front paws. When the bird is on the ground, it bites its neck, killing it. The serval has been known to breed with the domestic cat, creating a hybrid called the Savannah Cat. Savannah Cats are very intelligent and reportedly act like dogs. They can be on a leash and even be trained to play fetch.