3 Wildcats on the Loose in PA after Escaping from Damaged Enclosure at Cricket Wildlife Center
Published On: 11/6/2025
Last Updated On: 11/6/2025
By Callie, Seymour, Yebba, and Mama and our Hooman Ashley!
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If you see the wildcats, you are asked to call the Cricket Wildlife Center at 717-381-9893.
Wait, What Do You Mean—Wildcats? In Berks County?!
Hi friends — your feline reporters Callie, Seymour, Yebba, and Mama here with breaking mews straight out of our home turf in Pennsylvania.
This isn’t your average stray cat story. No alley cats or neighborhood toms this time — we’re talking three African servals on the loose in Berks County.
That’s right — actual wildcats, the long-legged cousins of us house kitties, are roaming free after a powerful storm hit the area on Wednesday, November 5, 2025.
And before you panic — no, they’re not after your kibble or your kids. Let’s break it down. 🐾
The Facts: What Happened in District Township, PA
Enclosure damaged by fallen tree from November 5th storm at Cricket Wildlife Center in PA
According to the Cricket Wildlife Center in District Township (just 7 miles from Alburtis), a tree fell onto one of their outdoor enclosures during the storm, allowing three African servals to escape.
The servals — beautiful, spotted wildcats native to Africa — are older animals that rely on humans for food and care. The center has stressed they are not a danger to people or pets and urged the public not to harm or approach them.
If spotted, please contact Cricket Wildlife Center immediately at 📞 717-381-9893.
💬 “Please do not harm them,” the center stated. “Their ability to care for themselves is not good.”
As of today, recovery efforts are ongoing, with wildlife staff and volunteers working to safely return the trio home.
What Are Servals, Anyway?
Serval: medium-sized wild cats with tawny, black-spotted coats and long necks and long legs
Servals are sleek, golden-spotted wildcats known for their long legs and powerful leaps (seriously — 10 feet straight up!). While smaller than leopards, they’re still far too wild for domestic life.
They thrive in sanctuaries and wildlife centers where trained experts meet their needs.
And while we house cats like to think we’re fierce — servals are the real deal.
Why This Story Matters (and What We Can Learn)
As rescue cats ourselves, we know what it’s like to be lost — and scared.
These servals may not be neighborhood strays, but their story reminds us of something universal: every cat, wild or tame, depends on compassion to find their way home.
This is also a powerful reminder of the incredible work done by local animal and wildlife centers like Cricket — and the importance of preparedness and support in times of crisis.
If you live nearby:
✅ Stay calm — they are not dangerous.
✅ Don’t chase or corner them.
✅ Call 717-381-9893 if you see one.
And if your inner rescuer is roaring, you can support Cricket Wildlife Center’s recovery efforts through donations or supplies listed on their Facebook page.
🐾 Bonus for Cat Parents
Want to learn how to help cats — big or small — safely and compassionately?
Join our Stray Cat News Insider List for the latest updates on PA rescues, shelters, and feline news below.
Because every cat deserves a safe place to land — whether it’s a windowsill… or a wildlife sanctuary. 💚
