In addition to hunting its own prey, the Serval has constantly to be alert to danger in the form of carnivores bigger than itself. Spotted Hyenas are a major threat, and Leopards have been recorded to catch and feed on Serval in various parts of the continent. Nile Crocodile and African Rock Python pose a further threat to adults, while the young are most at risk to Martial Eagle and other large birds of prey.
Its diet consists chiefly of rats, mice and game birds, but it will also eat insects, especially beetles. If its prey is too large to eat in one sitting, then it will return one or two nights later to finish its course. This animal has long legs and is able to carry itself in speed for short distances. The serval is usually a nocturnal animal but can be seen in the early morning or evening. It prefers to use paths or roads, rather than to make its way across rough terrain.
The serval can catch a bird in flight with a leap into the air, and nothing will stop it when trying to catch a rat or any other rodent: it will even leap into water. It has very good hearing, and will silently and carefully track prey and kill it with a pounce on its two front paws.