THREE rare-breed exotic kittens are proving to be a big hit with visitors to a dale animal rescue centre.
The Savannah cats were adopted by Wetheriggs Animal Rescue and Conservation Centre last month and have begun to draw crowds.
The breed is a cross between the wild African serval and a domestic cat, and has since been recognised in its own right.
This means people can see the Savannahs at any time, unlike the other exotic animals which can only be viewed during open days.
Centre operator Terry Bowes said: “They have been such a hit with everybody. Their playful antics are very reminiscent of their wild ancestors.
“[The development of the breed] shows which way the pet trade is going with more exotic animals.”
They have proved so popular that they have already attracted a sponsor which will pay for their keep at the centre for the next six months.
As the animals were born this year they have all been given names beginning with L. The brave one that is always exploring has been named Leeeto, which means journey, and another with impeccable manners has been named Lateef, which means civilised. The third has been named Luan, which translates as lion.
Mr Bowes is familiar with servals through previous conservation work.
He said: “They tend to be quite lovely big things and they a have a lovely temperament.”
Meanwhile, the centre has appointed a new apprentice manager in the form of 20-year-old Matthew Lynn.
He previously volunteered on weekends while studying towards a zoology qualification, and will continue working towards a degree in management though Optimum Skills, in Darlington.
He said: “I love being around the animals all the time. I like the goats quite a lot because they are so full of character.”
Another new feature in the centre’s long barn, where the kittens are housed, is a flock of about 30 free-flying love birds.
Mr Bowes said: “They have free flight of the barn – up and down, They have got nest boxes up and they are nesting, which is good.”
Mr Bowes said the centre aims to host an open day where people can view the more exotic animals later this summer, after work on a new reptiles area is completed.
