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Steven Kendus reports a pet F-1 Savannah cat—a first-generation cross between an African serval and a domestic cat—has been roaming Brandywine Hundred since October 16. Sightings of the 30-pound cat Saturday night prompted a resident of Glenside Farms to contact police after she recorded video of the cat in her yard. Several New Castle County Police officers used thermal imaging equipment to locate the cat in a grassy field behind Rita’s Water Ice on Silverside Road, but they could not capture him.

The cat was last seen around 1:00 AM Sunday morning crossing Silverside Road near Branmar Plaza.

Cat owner Richard Todd of Wilson Road in Brandywine Hundred said the 8-year-old cat’s name is Boo Tala. “He is a domesticated cat and is not dangerous. He poses no threats to humans or pets, and he is declawed,” says Todd. “He’s easily frightened, however, so he could be standoffish.” He is typically fed raw chicken.

Boo is about 30 pounds with a small head, large ears, elongated neck, and long slender legs. The hind legs are longer than the front legs. His coat is pale yellow with black markings (spots). See the attached photos of Tala.

Todd says New Castle County Police, Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife, and the Brandywine Zoo have been notified.

Police are asking that if anyone sees the aforementioned animal to use caution, and do not attempt to approach the cat.

Citizens should call the New Castle County Police Department at (302) 573-2800 or report a sighting on the department website, www.nccpd.com.