The Serval

The main threats to the survival of the beautiful Serval are: Wetland habitat loss and degradation and Degradation of grasslands, driven by annual burning followed by overgrazing. The domestic trade is Serval pelts is also a big problem. Often tourists are sold Serval skins, which may be offered to them as young leopard (Panthera pardus) or cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) pelts. In Nigeria, pelts are commonly traded and are among the most often seen animal skins.

There is some good news though: The ceremonial usage, and use in traditional medicine is declining. Although the loss of native prey species, driven by habitat alteration, and persecuted by humans, especially in rural areas, where they are targeted for their supposed habit of kill small livestock.