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African Serval Seized from Texas Garage

Incident Date:
03/05/2025
Location:
Houston, TX - USA
Facility Name:
Facility Type:
Exotic Pet (E)
Incident Category:
Escape of animal (EA)
Species:
Other
Animal:
Serval
Animal disposition:
Recaptured

Summary:

HOUSTON, TX – Texas police and wildlife agencies are investigating how a serval, a wild cat species native to Africa, ended up in a Houston garage with a cone around their neck.

An anonymous tip led authorities from the Harris County Precinct 1 Constable’s Office to the garage on March 5, according to a Facebook post. Inside, they found a kennel containing the feline, along with another crate with two dogs. The people who had the serval told police they rescued him/her from a neglectful situation. Texas Parks & Wildlife and U.S. Fish & Wildlife are investigating the matter as an illegal animal trafficking case. A court hearing has been scheduled to determine if the purported owners will retain ownership.

Meanwhile, the Houston Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has taken the serval into their care. According to the post, the veterinary staff evaluating and treating the serval has concerns about its health.

Action take by Born Free USA:

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