Serval

The Serval (Leptailurus serval) is a medium-sized African wild cat. It is closely related to the African Golden Cat and the Caracal. The length is 59 to 92 centimetres (23 to 36 in), plus 20 to 38 centimetres (7.9 to 15 in) of tail, and the shoulder height is about 54 to 66 centimetres (21 to 26 in). Weight can range from 7 to 12 kilograms (15 to 26 lb). Life expectancy is about 10 years.

It is a slender animal, with long legs and a fairly short tail. The tall, oval ears are set close together. The pattern of the fur is variable. Usually, the Serval is boldly spotted black on tawny. The 'servaline" form has much smaller, freckled spots. In addition, melanism is known to exist in this species, giving a similar appearance to the black panther. White servals are white with silvery grey spots and have only occurred in captivity.