African Serval on the Loose in Chester County Following House Fire: Officials Caution Residents to Stay Vigilant

Chester County: African Serval Still Loose After House Fire

Residents in Chester County, South Carolina are urged to keep a lookout for a stray exotic pet, an African serval, on the loose following a house fire on East Lacey Street. Local officials are asking residents to promptly report any sightings of the large wild cat, which darted out of the premises during the blaze.

Public Safety Concerns

Given that the African serval is not a domesticated species, it poses a significant threat to citizens due to its potential aggressive behavior and strength. Children and household pets should notably stay under close supervision, and indoors if possible until authorities can locate and capture the serval.

The Incident

The fire incident occurred on a Wednesday night. Firefighters were informed about the escape of the African serval when they arrived at the scene. In the unfortunate event, two domestic cats were found dead, but the serval is still missing as of Friday, 11 a.m.

Urgent Search and Recovery

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources initially issued a directive to shoot the wild cat on sight but retracted this order after a discussion with local law enforcement officials. The owner was provided a four-hour window to find the serval, failing which law enforcement was authorized to undertake “necessary measures”, including possibly euthanizing the creature for public safety.

Report Sightings Immediately

Residents are strongly encouraged not to approach or attempt to capture the serval due to the severe inherent risk. Instead, sightings should be urgently reported to the police. The community is collectively tasked with supporting the safe recovery of this displaced wild animal in order to ensure everyone’s safety.

Author: HERE Hilton Head