The variability in colour and pattern between different Servals led to the idea that there were two species. However, both 'species' were then found in the same litter and this was proved wrong. Servals usually have a fawn coat with rows of black spots that camouflage them in the open grassy landscapes in which they live. They can be found in tall grass, reeds, bushes, open forest and rocky areas, as well as savannah, where they survive by following river banks. Water is very important in these dry areas, so each Serval has its own water source within its territory.
Servals are solitary animals.
They scent mark their territories on prominent land marks and if confronted by another Serval they threaten, but rarely fight, the intruder. If pursued by a predator they will run for the trees where they can easily climb out of reach. They are also excellent swimmers. They can probe into crevices for rodents and grab them and pull them out. Their favourite food is the Guinea Fowl which can be captured in a leap up to 2 metres above the ground.