Skip to main content

Although servals are specialist carnivores, this doesn't mean they can't adapt to new environments. In a new study by Fortune Ravhuanzwo and colleagues from Fort Hare University, researchers found that a petrochemical plant in South Africa had become a popular feeding ground for servals. This is likely because of the high population of rodents there and low populations of larger carnivores in the area. But, does this mean habitat for the serval doesn't need to be protected? No. Industrial sites like this can change over time, leading to less favorable conditions and possibly, long-term health issues for servals due to toxic substance exposure. Still, it is encouraging to see that some specialists can adapt to changing environments, given the ongoing expansion of human development.

Read the Mongabay article about this study by Juliette Portala HERE.

 

Reference

Ravhuanzwo, F., Loock, D.J. and Swanepoel, L.H., 2024. The importance of rodents to a specialist carnivore in an industrialized site. Mammalia.

Do You Have 2-4 Hours A Month To Preserve Your Local Ecosystem?

Our volunteers are the driving force behind making true change in ecosystem health and wild cat conservation. Some like to volunteer in the field, others help us maintain our online presence, and some work with events. With just a few hours a month, you can make a difference, too.

See Volunteer Opportunities

Make A Difference Right Now

As a 501(c)3 nonprofit, our work is only possible because of generous donors like you.

More than 90% of your donation will go directly to our groundbreaking research, outreach, and education programs.

This is where true change starts. If you’d like to be a part of it, make a donation to Felidae Conservation Fund today:

Or,