Born
April 27, 2007
Rescued
April 27, 2009
Died
March 15, 2025
Elvis’ Story
On Sunday, April 26, 2009, Carolina Tiger Rescue received a call from a woman stating that her friend owned a pet serval that she could no longer care for. The caller would not identify herself and asked if we could take the serval. It was explained to the caller that the owner of the animal would need to speak with our curator to arrange the rescue. Though our curator was not on duty that day, the caller was given her contact information and it was also explained to the caller that we currently had two tigers in quarantine and so did not have room for another new animal at that time. The next morning, our curator discovered a full grown serval in a small dog crate at the entrance. A note left on the crate said that the serval’s name was Elvis. After being examined, Elvis was found to be malnourished, weighing far less than he should have. He also had evidence of a collar having grown into his neck and he had scarring on his forehead that we believe came from him constantly rubbing his face on the crate.
Elvis was a social serval, who would eagerly come up to the fence for treats. He would also quickly hiss to remind you that he’s a wild animal. Elvis was a popular serval at the sanctuary and was well-known for only having three legs. Losing a leg didn’t deter him though. Elvis got around just fine and even caught critters that were unfortunate enough to make their way into his enclosure.
Elvis’ Passing
April 12, 2025
Over the past few weeks, our hearts have been heavy.
We’ve said goodbye to two beloved servals, Elvis and Dylan—each with their own remarkable story, unique personality, and special place in our hearts. As any member of our sanctuary family knows, these moments never get easier. The grief is real because the love is real. And while we find comfort in knowing both servals were surrounded by care, compassion, and a deep respect, their absence is profoundly felt throughout the sanctuary.
On March 15th, we said goodbye to Elvis Serval. Over the last few months, Elvis had been showing signs of age-related decline— arthritis, muscle mass and weight loss, and not being able to groom thoroughly. Our animal care team provided subcutaneous fluids this past week in hopes of giving him a boost, but unfortunately, his condition didn’t improve. When he refused food—a rare and clear sign from such a treat-loving cat—we knew it was time to say goodbye.
Elvis was surrounded by the staff who had loved and cared for him deeply for nearly 16 years. There were many tears, but also deep gratitude for the joy he brought us all.
Elvis has one of the most memorable stories in our Sanctuary’s history. In 2009, he was literally left in our parking lot overnight by a private owner who could no longer manage him. His spirited personality and wild instincts were never meant for a home—and here, he finally had a place to be exactly who he was. Over time, Elvis became a favorite on tours, known for curiously checking out visitors (often with a hiss or a snarl to remind you that he was still very much a wild animal).
Elvis was easy to love and hard to forget. Whether it was his sleek, tripod stride, his legendary knack for getting food stuck in his teeth, or the unmatched speed at which he could devour a pumpkin, he left an impression on everyone who met him. He was a guest favorite, a staff treasure, and an unforgettable serval. We miss him more than words can say.
With a Heavy Heart,
Kathryn Bertok
Assistant Director