African Genet

The small-spotted genet is found in the more dense forest regions of africa. Its spots are round and elongated. Similar to the civet, the genet produces secretions conveying messages about sexual, social or territorial behavior. When angry the genet can squirt a foul-smelling substance that scares enemies. Genets also have retractable claws adapted to climbing and catching prey. Several types of genetsare in East Africa including the forest species the savannah-area species are the most widely distributed species of genets which is found in a variety of habitats.Genets are mainly nocturnal but are often spotted during the day in the rainy season. Genets can squeeze their slender and flexible bodies through any opening larger than their head. They also climb trees to hunt nesting or roosting birds. Female genets are thought to be territorial, as they generally return to the same area if captured and released while males do not. Adult genets are solitary except during periods of mating or when a female is accompanied by her young. A female may have up to two litters a year with two to four young in each. Kittens are born in a burrow, their eyes and ears are shut at birth and do not open for about 10 days. They receive their first solid food at about 6 weeks. Genets mature in 2 years and live about 8 years in the wild. The genet is classified as a carnivore, but it actually is omnivorous and will eat whatever is most available. This can be small mammals (especially rodents, shrews and bats), birds, and their eggs, frogs, millipedes, centipedes, scorpions and various fruit. Credits go to AFW Wild life. Picture credits go to Kostich.com!