Cape genet
Southern large-spotted genet ( Genetta tigrina )
The Southern large-spotted genet ( Genetta tigrina ) lives in coastal regions in southern Africa (South Africa and Lesotho). The distribution area extends south from the Western Cape Province to the south KwaZulu -Natal (East Coast) and the bordering Lesotho. The species inhabits forests and heathlands in the fynbos and is not endangered as.
Features
The Southern large-spotted genet has an elongated body with a strikingly short legs and a long tail. The head-body length is 46-58 cm in males and in females 42-56 cm. The tail length reaches up to 46 cm. Females weigh up to 1.9 kilograms, males up to 2.1 kg. The body top is yellowish - white in color to gray, the underside gray to white - gray. On the center back and a black band runs. On the sides of the body, the strips are resolved to a smaller and smaller, dark spot pattern. The tail has 7-8 bright stripes, alternating with dark stripes, the tail tip is black. The head tapers to its snout, the face is drawn mask-like. The claws can be retracted when climbing.
Distribution and habitats
The Southern United genet is used in comparatively rain-rich regions along the south and east coast of South Africa. The distribution area extends south from the Western Cape Province to the south KwaZulu -Natal and neighboring Lesotho. The northern boundary of the site is located at 32 ° S ( further north locality data are attributable G. maculata ).
The species lives in forests and in coastal and mountain fynbos ( Gentiles in the floral region capensis). The habitats are characterized by dense vegetation and good water supply, hunting and more open areas to be visited.
Way of life
The Southern United genet is a nocturnal predator. It feeds mainly on small mammals, birds and arthropods ( arthropods ), such as insects. In Proximity small domestic animals and poultry are captured and Browsed waste. Southern large-spotted genet seem to live solitary outside the breeding season. Details of life are not known.
Endangering
Significant risks are not known. Moreover, since their range is relatively large, it seems to be relatively common and is regularly seen in protected areas the Southern United genet by IUCN as not at risk ( least concern ) substance.