African Civet Civettictis civetta

The African Civet is native to much of sub-Saharan Africa. It is one of the largest viverrids (civets/genets) and is related to cats and hyenas but more primitive. It is also related to the Indian, Malayan and Large Spotted (Asian) Civets.

The coat is grey with black spots and stripes for camouflage and a bandit mask on the face. Shown are young civets but the adult usually has a mane along the back from neck to tail.

African Civets are mainly solitary, nocturnal and omnivores (eating carrion, rodents, reptiles, birds, eggs, insects, fruit and vegetables). There are several subspecies across their range. Although not considered endangered, populations are declining through demand for their skins, bushmeat and a musk secretion for perfumes.