Serval cats are slender, medium sized creatures with a widespread distribution in Africa south of the Sahara Desert. They are rare north of the desert. They have an average height of 54 – 62 cm (21 – 24 in) at the shoulder and weigh 9 – 18 kg (20 – 40 lb). Males are slightly larger than females. They have the longest legs relative to body size of any cat.



These carnivores eat mainly rodents which they capture by leaping high into the air and coming down upon them with their forelegs. They also eat birds, reptiles, frogs and insects. They prefer to hunt in areas of tall grass or reeds near water sources.



They are solitary animals except during mating who hunt by day or night. They usually rest during the midday.