My name is Eric Ole Kesoi, Lion Guardians Co-ordinator.
Follow us on TwitterIt was late in the evening in our camp in Selenkei when we decided to respond to a Lion Guardian report. Several exciting things happened within a short span of time. First we found a herd of about 30 elephants which in itself is something unusual. The elephants were clearly uneasy with us being near, probably as a result of the on-going human-wildlife conflict in Amboseli. After inspecting the elephants at close range for any injuries, we left satisfied that they were all okay.
Then within a short distance, a lone hare persisted to stay on the road in front of our vehicle, thus in our way. Darkness was approaching and we slowed down for it to move on. Then like a flash, an African wildcat darted into our path, struck the hare with its paw and delivers a death bite, all in less than 3 seconds. We could not believe it and were excited that it all took place in front of our vehicle. We continued on our way. As we reached the edge of Amboseli National Park in open grassland, we found a completely black animal that I have never seen before. The altitude was 1245 meters above sea level. It had a small head with large ears and long legs relative to its body size. Can any of our readers identify this creature?
Can you identify this animal?
We were very excited when this crossed our path.
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Interesting black cat. Has long legs like a serval – but short ears. Maybe breed with a black domestic cat? Hope someone can identify.
Is it a melanistic Serval? Cool sighting guys!!
Hi,
It is a black serval cat, a melanistic version of this feline.
Black serval cat are enough common in wet area and it is possible to meet them (with luck) in Aberdares in Kenya.
Wonderful pictures.
Pascal
Well done – you guys got it off the bat! It is indeed a melanistic Serval. We were very surprised to see it at such a low altitude.
Intersting blog and fascinating creature. Good to remind us, of the smaller cat species, many of whom are facing extinction.