The Savannah cat is a cross between the Serval, an African wildcat, and a domestic cat. It can grow much larger than a domestic cat.

According to an ABC report, members of the scientific community have urged the government to ban the importation of the cat which is due to become available in Australia next year. Federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett has said he will prohibit the import of the pet if it is shown to be a risk for the environment.

A copy of a draft environmental assessment of the suitability of the import of the Savannah Cat (Domestic Cat x Serval hybrid specimens) into Australia has been prepared by the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts. You can download it from their web site:

savannah-cat.pdf

Comments are invited on the draft report. It is available for public comment closing on 17 July 2008. Comments received and any relevant additional information provided will be considered by DEWHA in finalising the assessment report.

Submissions should be in writing and sent to

Director
Exotic Species Regulation Section
Wildlife Branch
Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts
GPO Box 787
CANBERRA ACT 2601

or to

WSM.Mail@environment.gov.au