African Civet

Afrikaanse siwet

Civettictis civetta

Easily recognizable with its large spots (mistaken for leopard!), small ears and banded, bushy tail. It prefers the denser vegetation of the northeastern parts. Omnivorous, but preys on rodents, insects, bird and mammals no larger than rabbits.

Mistakes

Coyote getter (gifskieters) meant for jackal are a serious threat to civet.

Red Data Book: “rare”.

Taken for Black-backed jackal at night and accidentally shot.

Did you know?

	Civets feed on millipedes like probably no other animal does.
	When they get threatened, they make themselves look bigger by standing side-ways on, and erecting impressive back hair.