Merlin arrived at Catty Shack Ranch on June 5, 2019. He was rehomed from a private owner. Born on January 30, 2019, Merlin was just over 4 months old when he joined the Catty Shack Ranch family.

Merlin is named for the enchanter or wizard in legends of King Arthur and in Welsh poetry. He figured in various authors’ works as early as the 12th Century. He is depicted as having human and non-human heritage as well as supernatural abilities and powers. In some tales, he serves as King Arthur’s advisor and as a mentor to the Knights.

Servals mature at roughly 2 years of age. Even as he grows, his handsome ears will remain prominent. Servals rely on their sense of hearing as they hunt in the wild and are able to rotate their ears 180 degrees independently on one another as they listen for prey. When seated, his regal posture is striking. You notice his long slender legs. It is no wonder that the serval’s image is found in ancient Egyptian art and sculpture.

With Merlin in residence, we can help our visitors gain knowledge about and respect for this magnificent species. While servals in the wild are not classified as endangered, we all need to ensure they do not become threatened or endangered in the future.

We are grateful to be able to provide a safe, loving forever home to Merlin and all our animals. Merlin enjoys a healthy diet of raw meat, portions appropriate to his age, size and nutritional needs. All our animals receive regular veterinary care and are very much loved.

Arrived: June 5, 2019

Gender: Male

Classification: Serval (Leptailurus serval)