Rusty-spotted genet
A species of Genet, Also known as Large-spotted genet, Central african large-spotted genet Scientific name : Genetta maculata Genus : Genet
Rusty-spotted genet, A species of Genet
Also known as:
Large-spotted genet, Central african large-spotted genet
Scientific name: Genetta maculata
Genus: Genet
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Bernard DUPONT , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The Großfleck-Ginsterkatze or Großfleckgenette (Genetta maculata) is a predator species from the family of the Schleichkatzen (genus Ginsterkatzen). It occurs in a large distribution area in sub-Saharan Africa. The animals are usually solitary and feed predominantly predatory.
General Info
Lifespan
12-20 years
Diet
Rusty-spotted genet is an opportunistic and omnivorous feeder, primarily consuming small vertebrates such as rodents. It also supplements its diet with insects, fruits, and occasionally, bird eggs, demonstrating flexible feeding habits.
Appearance
The rusty-spotted genet is small and slender-bodied, with a long bushy tail that nearly matches its body length. It is covered in soft fur that ranges from buff to brown, adorned with dark brown or black spots and blotches. Its face exhibits vertical dark streaks, and its large ears have tufts of white fur. No significant visual differences exist due to age or gender in this species.
Behavior
Rusty-spotted genet is typically nocturnal, highly agile, and mostly solitary in its lifestyle. It uses scent marking for territorial delineation, exhibiting a promiscuous mating system. Rusty-spotted genet forages in its natural habitat mainly on a diet of rodents, insects, reptiles, and fruits. Unlike other carnivores, rusty-spotted genet displays a unique tree-climbing behavior to escape predators and search for food.
Photo By Bernard DUPONT , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Mammals Order
Carnivores Family
Viverrids Genus
Genet Species
Rusty-spotted genet