Foundation responds to report of “sick lynx” near Warsaw, which turns out to be an escaped African serval.
“Sick Lynx” Near Warsaw
Foundation Kopytka z nadzieją – Azyl dla Zwierząt leśnych i gospodarskich received a report that during the night from Wednesday to Thursday (February 18-19) in the town of Kierszek near Warsaw, near Kabacki Forest, a “sick lynx” was sighted. Upon arrival, it turned out to be a savannah serval – an exotic species of African cat.
Serval Escaped
The cat was in very good health. Unfortunately, the attempt to capture it was unsuccessful. Foundation employees fired an inaccurate shot with a Palmer gun – specialized equipment for tranquilizing animals – after which the serval escaped. Despite intensive searches, its tracks could not be found. Most likely the animal escaped from a private home or breeding facility.
Organization Appeals for Owner Contact
The organization appealed for urgent contact from the owner. It also asked all residents and people who spot the serval to report any information to the foundation, Municipal Guard in Konstancin-Jeziorna or the Environmental Protection Department. “Do not try to capture the animal yourself” – reads the statement.
The Serval is in Danger
The foundation emphasized that time is of the essence. The savannah serval is an exotic species originating from Africa, therefore low temperatures pose a serious threat to it.
