Common Genet Genetta genetta

Despite its close resemblance to a cat, surprisingly the Genet is not a type of cat but closely related to civets (themselves related to cats) and to mongooses. The Common Genet, shown here, also called Small Spotted Genet, is native to Africa and Arabia and has been introduced into southwest Europe.

The species of Genet (depending on authority, could be three or several) all look very similar, with spotted coats and ringed tails except for the Aquatic Genet which is brown without spots.

Like most cats, it is mainly solitary. Male and female look similar. Genets climb well. It is mainly nocturnal but can be active by day.