Firefighters who were investigating a small residential fire in Marrero, a suburban community outside New Orleans, discovered an African serval kept in the backyard, a spokesperson for local animal protection services said.
The serval, a wildcat species native to sub‑Saharan Africa, was found inside a chain‑link enclosure described by officials as resembling a cramped baseball batting cage. Authorities said the animal had been illegally contained at the property.
Crews subdued the cat at the scene and transferred it to an animal welfare facility, where staff are now caring for the animal. The local animal protection agency said it is working to place the serval in an appropriate environment.
Officials did not immediately release information about the homeowner or any criminal charges. The discovery came as firefighters responded to what was reported as a minor house fire; there were no immediate reports of injuries related to the blaze.
Local animal welfare authorities handled the animal removal and are overseeing its care while arrangements are made for longer‑term placement, the spokesperson added. The agency did not provide a timeline for when the serval would be moved or the specific type of facility being sought.
The case highlights the challenges emergency responders can encounter when wild or exotic animals are kept in residential areas, officials said.