Australian zoo to start displaying 3 servals

Cool new cats for Werribee Zoo

Jenna Meade

January 13th, 2010

THE Werribee Open Range Zoo is almost ready to introduce three serval kittens as its latest addition.

The serval is a species of African cat and kittens Tula, Nanki and Morili have been at the zoo since last April undergoing a conditioning program to ensure they will be able to interact with visitors.

The zoo’s Kym Carter is looking forward to seeing the kittens in their new enclosure, which she hopes won’t be too far away.

“We’re in the process of redesigning and building a new exhibit for the kittens now,” Ms Carter said.

The serval is generally a lesser-known species of African cat and very shy by nature.

It is the tallest of the small cats and can grow up to 85cm.

While the species is not listed as endangered, there are problems with degradation of the serval’s wetlands habitat.

The kittens will feel at home in the zoo’s African-themed habitat which boasts an impressive line-up of African animals including giraffe, hippopotamus and rhinoceros.

http://www.geelongadvertiser.com.au/article/2010/01/13/137765_geelong_news.html

————

Learn more about big cats and Big Cat Rescue at http://bigcatrescue.org