as part of its adaptations for hunting in the savannas, the serval's long legs help it achieve a top speed of 80 kilometres per hour (50 mph), and has large ears with acute hearing. its long legs and neck allow the serval to see over tall grasses, while its ears are used to detect prey, even those burrowing underground. servals have been known to dig into burrows in search of underground prey, and to leap 2 to 3 metres (7 to 10 ft) into the air to grab birds in flight. using its spectacular jumping ability, the serval leaps into the air and bats the bird with its front paws. when the bird is on the ground, it bites its neck, killing it.