Savannah black footed cat. It has rounded ears, very large eyes, and a short, black-tipped tail. See also Black-footed Cat Project Black-footed Cat Research Download Juxtaposition of cute and deadly: the african black-footed cat. They are nocturnal hunters, preying on small mammals, birds, and reptiles, and are known for their incredible Jun 23, 2024 · Learn 10 amazing things about Savannah cats including their history, size, colors, activity level, love of water, and more. However, did you know there’s an additional species of wild cat in Africa – recognized as one of the smallest cat species in the world? Black footed cats are Explore our selection of exotic cats for sale, including African Serval Cats, Ocelots cats and Caracal kittens, perfect for your family. It is endemic to southern Africa, where it lives in dry, open savanna, grassland and Karoo semi-desert with shrub and tree Jan 24, 2023 · Weighing about 3 to 4 points and growing up to about 17 inches in length, the black-footed cat is the smallest wild cat on the African continent. Sep 2, 2025 · This kitty may resemble a typical housecat, but she’s actually a deadly wildcat found on the plains of the African savannah. Visit them at Fossil Rim. Dec 17, 2023 · The black-footed cat of southern Africa is a small, solitary, and attractive animal. Black-footed cats are the deadliest of the entire cat family - with a 60 percent hunting success rate. Getty Images/iStockphoto Native to southern Africa and weighing less than a bag of sugar, this wild feline is basically a pocket-sized predator with serious attitude. Learn about the most intriguing big and small hybrid cat breeds. 6 pounds. In a single night, they kill Jun 19, 2024 · Although black-footed cats are inadequately surveyed in the wild, their favorable habitat appears to be savannah regions, which maintain long grass with increased rodent and bird populations. The small cat is an excellent hunter as it silently blends in with the savannah background. These wild-domestic hybrids have sometimes been called "feral-domestic hybrids". Characterized by its tawny, spotted coat and the distinctive black pads and fur on its feet that give it its name, the black-footed cat utilizes a variety of hunting strategies. (1 to 3 kilograms) and have a predation success rate of 60 percent, which is three times higher than that of lions. Watch the video below to understand all the risks & expectations of owning one. The Nocturnal Ninja of the Savannah Black-footed cats are strictly nocturnal. lybica catus, a descendant of the African wildcat (F. Nature's contrast. Gr. Meet the African black footed cat! If you’re a safari enthusiast, you’re probably aware that there are many species of wild cats in Africa, which include the African lion, cheetah, leopard, African golden cat, serval and caracal. Under the cloak of darkness, they come alive, using their remarkable eyesight and hearing to locate unsuspecting prey. Stock Photo and explore similar images at Adobe Stock Aug 7, 2025 · If you thought domestic kittens were small, wait until you meet the black-footed cat. Funds for this project donated by Cologne Zoo, Cincinnati Zoo, Zoological Society of San Diego, Ebeltoft Zoo, Parc des Félins. The fur is cinnamon buff to tawny or off-white with Jun 8, 2025 · The appearance of the lovely and spicy black-footed cat is almost surreal because it looks almost exactly like a miniature domesticated grey and brown tabby. They are pale brown in colour with dark spots on their back, sides and stomach. The head appears over-sized relative to the rest of the body. But what if we tell y The domestic cat, known variously as Felis catus, F. Nov 5, 2018 · Unlike big cats, the black-footed cat tends to disappear into the tall grasses of the African savannah, making its exploits difficult to track via camera. Mar 28, 2025 · Black-footed cats are the world's deadliest species The black-footed cat (Felis nigripes), also called the small-spotted cat, is the smallest wild cat in Africa, with a head-and-body length of 35–52 cm (14–20 in). Sep 11, 2025 · The Black-footed Cat (Felis nigripes) is the smallest cat in Africa and the second smallest of all wild cats. Unlike other felines who rely on vision, they also have a keen sense of touch, which comes in handy when hunting in burrows. Amanukatz Savannah Kittens. 5 lb) it is one of the smallest living species of cats. Apr 16, 2025 · The black-footed cat faces many threats, including habitat loss and predation by larger animals like black-backed jackals and domestic dogs. Jul 22, 2022 · The Black-footed cat (Felis nigripes) is a solitary, secretive and nocturnal felid endemic to the south-west arid zone of southern Africa. The soft, dense coat ranges from dark to pale tawny gold, with a bold pattern of rounded dark brown to black spots which sometimes merge into bands or rings. This mini menace is one of the most skilled hunters in the animal kingdom. The savannah breed originates from a male Serval (species Leptailurus serval) bred with a female domestic cat (species Felis catus). The fur is cinnamon buff to tawny or off-white with Basic facts about Black-Footed Cat: lifespan, distribution and habitat map, lifestyle and social behavior, mating habits, diet and nutrition, population size and status. Oct 16, 2024 · Home » News » The Black-footed Cat Of South Africa In the African wilderness, an enigmatic feline prowls silently through the savannah, its black feet treading softly on the dusty ground. Please LIKE and SUBSCRIBE if you enjoyed! http://bit. The Black-Footed Cat, also known as the small-spotted cat, is the smallest wild cat in Africa, weighing only 2-4 pounds and standing about 10 inches tall at the shoulder. The black-footed cat (Felis nigripes) is a small wild cat distributed over South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe. The Black-footed cat is an elusive and solitary animal that is active mainly at night, making it difficult to observe in the wild. Jul 18, 2023 · The black-footed cat is one of the lesser studied wild cats of Africa. TThese pint-sized marvels are the smallest of all African wildcats, with females weighing as little as two to three pounds. Discover what makes this breed unique, from their lifespan to legal ownership in the US. However, this is a misnomer, because feral refers to a domesticated population species which has reverted to living KezKatz Cattery in Oklahoma is a Cat and Kitten Breeder with Ocicat, Egyptian Mau and Savannah Cats For Sale. Black-Footed Cat: The Animal Files The black-footed cat (Felis nigripes) is a small wild cat distributed over South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe. They have dark stripes on their cheeks, legs and tail and their The Black-footed Cat Felis nigripes is Africa’s smallest felid, and among the smallest wild cat species in the world. Native to the African savannah, When we say a furiously dangerous cat, A lion, right? Or maybe, any animal from the feline family is convincingly dangerous and deadly. Don’t let the cuteness fool you, though. Click to see available kittens. There is little in the savannah grasslands that the petite black-footed cat won’t at least try to eat. 25 - 6. May 18, 2023 · Every night, somewhere unseen across the vast, semidesert and dry savanna habitat of Southern Africa, the continent’s deadliest cat emerges to hunt. silvestris catus, or F. They are mainly found in southern Africa. The black-footed cat is a tiny but skilled predator that lives a secretive life in Africa. If you are looking for a F1 Savannah Cat for sale, which is a hybrid serval go to the Black-footed Cat Working Group The Black-footed Cat Working Group has the goal of furthering awareness and research for this rare cat, bringing together multidisciplinary expertise on the species biology. We are a TICA registered Savannah Breeder offering F2 – F6 Savannah kittens. sightings@gmail. It emerges at night to stealthily stalk its prey under the cover of darkness, flattening itself to the ground and taking advantage of any hiding places along the way. Jan 2, 2025 · Uncover the secrets of the elusive sand cat. Main Characteristics: Black-Footed Cats are one of the smallest species of cat. The trip this year was very successful as five males were caught and semen was collected from all (most ever in one year), with four of them being new males to the study. 3, 2024. The main population centers are in South Africa, Namibia and Botswana Jan 3, 2024 · Gaia, a black-footed cat, peers out from her enclosure at the Hogle Zoo in Salt Lake City on Wednesday, Jan. I won’t say our kittens are cheaper than others, but I will say ours are certainly a cut above. Jun 1, 2020 · Black-footed cat – Felis nigripes Also known as the “small-spotted cat”, the black-footed cat is the smallest of all of the African cat species and is endemic to the southwestern areas of Southern Africa. They are small, compact cats that closely resemble domesticated grey, brown, and black tabby cats, which are quite common. The black-footed cat is a solitary animal and is active at night and thus rarely seen. Exploring africa's smallest, most dangerous feline: the black-footed cat. With long bodies, powerful limbs and striking spotted coats, Savannah cats are visually stunning. They weigh about 2 to 6 lbs. 5 and 3 kgs (3. ); Black-footed Cat #3 (17 Kb GIF) (Tigerhomes) The black-footed cat is one of the smallest cat species, weighing about 2 kg (4 lb). Black-footed cat (Felis Nigripes) The black-footed cat (Felis nigripes) is a small wild cat distributed over South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe. . The habitats of this cat species are arid semi-desert and savannah. They have short, reddish-brown fur with black spots and stripes, and distinctive black tufts of hair on their ears. Felis nigripes is included on CITES Appendix I and protected by national legislation across most of its range. Mar 5, 2025 · One of the smallest wild cats, the Black-footed Cat, is native to the grasslands and savannas of southern Africa. Apr 27, 2006 · Profile Pictures: Black-footed Cat #1 (9 Kb JPEG) (Big Cats Online); Black-footed Cat #2 (19 Kb JPEG) (IUCN Cat Spec. Nov 5, 2018 · Unlike big cats, the black-footed cat tends to disappear into the tall grasses of the African savannah, making its exploits difficult to track via camera. com ** Donate to support research at: Jun 19, 2025 · Hybrid cat breeds can vary widely in markings, colors, and temperaments. A Khoisan legend tells of a Black-footed Cat that took down a Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) by piercing its jugular (Sunquist & Sunquist 2002), which serves only to emphasis the ferocity and courage contained in such a tiny cat. They have a distinct look and interesting habits. May 14, 2018 · The black-footed cat might weigh as much as a lion’s paw, but it is as vicious as the rest of the wild cat family. TThese pint-sized marvels are the smallest of all African wildcats Feb 8, 2025 · This image shows a striking black-footed cat set against the arid savannah of southern Africa, with warm golden light and earthy tones, blending realism and expressive textures, showcasing the cat's tawny fur and piercing gaze. The background color of its coat varies from cinnamon-buff to tawny, and Apr 3, 2024 · As the black-footed cat population declines, conservationists look to Texas for the answer The Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is working toward mitigating the decline through their black-footed cat consortium program. There are seasonal differences in their diet, relating to the occurrence of insects, reptiles and frogs in summer, and young hares in the spring. These cats, despite their small size, can travel vast distances in search of sparse prey, and have special adaptations to cope with their semi-arid to arid environment. They have a body length between 34 and 50 cms (13. Image by Nature The black-footed cat (Felis nigripes) is Africa's smallest wild cat. With an average mass of 1. Their small size and night-time activities are surprising, yet they thrive in Southern Africa’s savannas and dry grasslands. These elusive creatures are none other than the captivating black-footed cats, a species that has managed to remain largely hidden from the world’s gaze. After importing these sperm Imagine a wild cat that fits comfortably in the palm of your hand; that’s the black-footed cat for you. Gyra, a black-footed cat. Savannah hunters. Gaia is 9 months old and weighs 2. It is the smallest wild African cat and the second smallest cat in the world. During the daylight hours, hunting cats are dive-bombed by small birds which hover 2 m above the cats, spoiling their attempts at hunting. Jun 11, 2025 · Hybrid cat breeds can make appealing pets since they look more exotic than domestic house cats, but they aren't for everyone. One of the smallest wild cats, the black-footed cat rests during the day among the bushes or in a burrow abandoned by an aardvark or porcupine. But these vulnerable, tiny cats—which may be the rarest wild felines in Africa—may lose their habitat if the South African springhares that dig these holes are locally extirpated from some areas. 5 - 20 inches), a tail length between 15 and 20 cms (6 - 8 inches) and they weigh between 1. It bears black streaks running from the corners of the eyes along the cheeks, and its banded tail has a black tip. Its dark feet and diminutive size make it a unique member of the Felis genus. Unfortunately, its population is threatened. Wild cats. Laura Seitz, Deseret News Ohio bans the ownership of big cats and their hybrids, but the legislations does not list the African Wildcat, Asian Leopard Cat, Black-Footed Cat, Caracal, Fishing Cat, Geoffroy's Cat, Jungle Cat, Margay, Oncilla, Rusty-Spotted Cat or Serval or their hybrids (nor other small wildcats that have not yet been hybridised for the pet market). You can select from our boldly-spotted and clearly-featured felines, carefully chosen from F1 to F5 generations. 6 kg (3. We breed some of the largest and most exotic looking savannah cats available. Black-footed cats (Felis nigripes) are Mar 30, 2023 · Interestingly, black-footed cats also have a faster metabolism than average cats and need a lot of food to keep up their energy. They are nocturnal hunters, preying on small mammals, birds, and reptiles, and are known for their incredible The Black-Footed Cat, also known as the small-spotted cat, is the smallest wild cat in Africa, weighing only 2-4 pounds and standing about 10 inches tall at the shoulder. This black-footed cat is named Gyra, and she’s being tracked by researchers by means of a radio collar and night-vision cameras. This species has the potential to be an iconic flagship species of southern Africa, particularly in the Karoo region. In episode 6, we explore the life of the Black Footed Cat, considered one of the most lethal predators in the animal kingdom. These include stalking and pouncing on small mammals, birds, and insects with a precision and agility that belie its small stature. lybica), has been hybridized with several wild felid species. It lives in the dry grasslands and savannah of the Karoo and Kalahari in South Africa and parts of Botswana and Namibia. This cat has black spots along its back and stomach that are typically Jan 28, 2025 · What makes the black footed cat so unique and fascinating? This small wild cat from Africa is one of the smallest cat species. Ethical high-end F1 Savannah cat breeder specializing in luxury Serval-hybrid kittens with TICA registration and worldwide delivery. Black-footed cat (or small spotted cat) (Felis nigripes) ** Report any sightings to: bfc. The cat’s breed is the smallest species of wild cat found in Africa. In the savannah, black-footed cats with a 60% success rate in capturing prey dominate. With its bold small spots and stripes on the tawny fur, it is well camouflaged, especially on moonlit nights. “The most important thing I found is that we need to preserve springhare if we want to save May 15, 2023 · The black-footed cat is the deadliest cat breed in Africa, with a hunting success rate of up to 60% and the ability to kill more than ten animals in one night. Aug 8, 2016 · Black-footed cats live in the dry zones of southern Africa, in the savannah and the semideserts of the Karoo and Kalahari. Their diet primarily consists of small mammals like rodents, insects, and May 10, 2024 · Black Footed Cat: The Adorable Assassin 🐱🐾 Meet the Black Footed Cat, a small but mighty feline from the African Savannah! Don't let their cute appearance fool you; these cats are incredibly skilled hunters. African servals are not anything like a house cat, and bond to only one family their entire life, they are not easy house pets, please take deep consideration and education before comitting to one of these beautiful animals. The Black-footed cat Working Group aims to conserve the black-footed cat by conducting multidisciplinary research on the species by different means such as camera trapping, radio telemetry and the collection and analysis of biological samples. Apr 21, 2025 · In the African wilderness, an enigmatic feline prowls silently through the savannah, its black feet treading softly on the dusty ground. Despite its name, only the soles of its feet are black or dark brown. Here, we will delve into the behaviours, lifestyle, routines, feeding habits, social dynamics, and adaptations of the African Black-footed cat. Savannah cats come in a range of colors from the standard brown, black spotted (BST), silver, black spotted (SST), Smoke, and melanistic (black on black) to non-standard snow, cinnamon and almost any imaginable color with spots. It's also a fierce hunter. Still, it continues to survive, thanks to its elusive nature and effective reproductive strategy. Jan 16, 2018 · Black-footed cats (Felis nigripes) are native to southwestern South Africa. Here’s why the black This article delves into the fascinating world of feline ears, with a focus on the ten wild cat species native to Africa: the lion, leopard, cheetah, caracal, serval, African golden cat, jungle cat, African wildcat, black-footed cat, and sand cat. Savannah Cat Breeder in Park Forest, Illinois As an accredited Savannah Cat Breeder registered with The International Cat Association (TICA) in Park Forest, Illinois, we take immense pride in offering a diverse selection of African Savannah Cats. Savannah Cat Owner’s Guide Mar 20, 2024 · Black-footed cats depend on the burrows that other animals dig in the grasslands of southern Africa. 5 lbs). ly May 11, 2024 · Dana When considering the most dangerous big cat species, it is evident that some predators stand out at the top of the food chain because of their deadly hunting skills and exceptional stealth. In addition to living in extremely dry conditions, these tough little fluffs, — which only grow up to about 17 inches What are Savannah Cats? Savannah cats are a spotted breed of domestic cat, with an elegantly tall, slender, and long body frame. Weighing just over two pounds, they're like ninja assassins, boasting a 60% kill rate – higher than lions! 🦁 These nocturnal hunters spend their nights relentlessly pursuing Jan 2, 2017 · Anneke Moresco with a black-footed cat (Photo: Alex Sliwa) Although everyone is exhausted at the end of 12 days of working very hard and sleeping very little, everyone is happy with the results. It is endemic to the arid regions of southern Africa where it is naturally rare and occurs at low densities. That’s why the Southern African cat has such a big appetite and is always looking for something to snack on! Don’t let the black-footed cat’s adorable appearance fool you. relb zfll awqty gubpk hgwsldj efsjb mwagvgp bvxxj tohiqan thybu