Nilgiri marten

South Indian Yellow-throated marten (Martes gwatkinsii )

The South Indian Yellow-throated marten (Martes gwatkinsii ), also known as Indian Charsa is a little-known Indian marten, which is endemic to the Western Ghats.

Features

The South Indian Yellow-throated marten looks very similar to the Yellow-throated marten. The males reach a head -body length of 50 to 70 centimeters, a tail length of 35 to 50 centimeters and a weight of 1-3 kg. The coat is predominantly dark brown. Shoulders and torso are reddish brown. The throat is characterized by significant rust yellow or lemon- yellow markings. The skull is low and flat.

Habitat

The South Indian Yellow-throated marten inhabits forests at altitudes 120-2383 m.

Way of life

Little is known about his life. He is obviously diurnal. To his food include king giant squirrel, India Kant Chile, Bengalenwarane as well as honey and nectar. It both individual animals as well as couples were observed, who were either on the ground or in trees.

Status

The South Indian Yellow-throated marten is threatened by habitat destruction and hunting. Its habitat is fragmented through over the entire area of ​​distribution.