Oklahoma City Zoo announces death of serval

The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden announced the death of its serval, Bosco, on Sunday.

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) - The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden announced the death of its serval, Bosco, on Sunday.

According to the OKC Zoo, 15-year-old Bosco moved to Oklahoma City in 2019. In February of 2024, the Zoo's veterinary team removed a salivary gland tumor from Bosco and he began healing.

In June, the cancer returned with a malignant growth that started to negatively affect his quality of life. Bosco was later moved to palliative, or end-of-life care after developing facial paralysis and the decision was made to humanely euthanize him.

"It's always a difficult decision to make," said OKC Zoo's Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Gretchen Cole. "Bosco's recovery after surgery earlier this year was heartening, but when the cancer returned, it was more aggressive than ever. Working with his caretakers, we made the determination that the cancer had significantly limited Bosco’s quality of life.”

Officials say the average life expectancy for servals is 10 to 12 years.