For the identification of insects and other fauna and flora of South Africa.

Tuesday, July 2, 2013

Large-spotted Genet

This poor genet has lost its foot. It had found a very cozy niche up in the rafters of this building.
Recognised by the black-tipped tail which distinguishes them from the Small-spotted Genet.
Under stress, they will emit a musky odour from an anal gland.
They are capable of catching birds flying overhead by jumping into air to catch them.
Their food consists mainly of rats, mice, locusts, beetles, birds and wild fruits.
They are only seen at night when they come out to hunt so seeing this one during the day and being able to get pics of it was a real treat.

9 comments:

Bhavesh Chhatbar said...

Amazing animal!

Margaret said...

What a fascinating animal!

OneStonedCrow said...

Beautiful Creature, you were lucky indeed to be able to photograph one - are they rare?

thanks for drawing my attention to this animal, I wasn't aware of their existence ...

SAPhotographs (Joan) said...

Thanks Bravesh and Margaret.

SAPhotographs (Joan) said...

They are not really rare Graham but because they are nocturnal, one never sees them.

Gaelyn said...

That was an awesome sighting. Seems like it knew you were there.

SAPhotographs (Joan) said...

I sometimes wonder if finding these creatures is luck or just that I am so aware of what goes on around me. This was a very special treat for me.

Firefly the Travel Guy said...

I think I've only seen one once on a game drive many years ago.

SAPhotographs (Joan) said...

Although they are nocturnal Jonker, I have seen them as late as 9am. Both of the genet species are found in this area.