Saturday, September 14, 2013

Vivid Viverrids

Binturongs are sometimes called bearcats, but they are neither cats nor bears.  They are, however, part of the viverrid family of cat-like animals, some of which look similar to cats and are related to the feline family.. Binturongs are the members that look least like a cat, looking somewhat and acting more like a raccoon. Like raccoons, binturongs are tree-dwellers and the largest member of the viverrid family weighting up to 70 pounds.

Source:  Wikipedia

Found in southeast Asia, it prefers heavily forested areas and are active both day and night.  Its diet consists of small mammals, birds, insects, fish and fruit, however, figs are a preferred prey.  Binturongs can live up to 25 years old, especially in captivity. While not related, its temperament is more like that of a badger and can be somewhat ill tempered not making it a good candidate for a pet.



Another viverrid is the genet.  Nearly all species of genets live in Africa except for the Common Genet which can also be found in Southwestern Europe and parts of the Middle East.  Exactly how many subspecies there are is under debate, but all are nocturnal, secretive little guys and mice and squirrels are favorite menu items.

Common Genet    Source: Wikipedia

Genets are great climbers and have quick reflexes.  They are the only member of the vivverid family that can stand on their hind legs.  Like cats, genets scent mark their territory and can purr.

Thierry's genet    Source: Wikipedia

For more imformation, pictures and a video of genets, click here.

Civets are another member of the this vivid family.  Most civets live in tropical Asia, but because of their nocturnal nature not a lot is known about some species.  Civets are sometimes referred to as toddycats.  The most well-known species of civet is the African civet.

Source:  Wikipedia

The African civet has disproportionately large hindquarters like a hyena and is also recognizable by its mohawk-style crest along its spine.It seems to be put together by spare parts completed by its leopard spotted coat and raccoon banded eyes.  Its diet includes small mammals, bird eggs, carrion, and even poisonous snakes and insects.

Asian palm civet    Source: Wikipedia

Southwick's Zoo in Mendon, Massachusetts has a binturong. I visited there several years ago and I found their binturong a very interesting character.

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