Genet

Overview
The genet is a small, agile carnivore native to Africa and parts of Europe, belonging to the genus Genetta. Resembling a cat, it features a slender body, elongated tail, pointed muzzle, large ears, and retractable claws. Its fur is typically pale yellowish or grayish with dark spots and stripes, and its tail is banded black and white.

Habitat and Behaviour
Genets are nocturnal and solitary, inhabiting a range of environments from forests to savannas. They are highly agile climbers, often resting in trees during the day and becoming active at night to hunt.

Diet
Primarily carnivorous, genets feed on small mammals like rodents and shrews, birds and their eggs, reptiles, amphibians, insects, and occasionally fruits. Their opportunistic feeding habits help control pest populations.

Reproduction
Breeding seasons vary by region, but females typically give birth to litters of up to four young after a gestation period of about 10 to 11 weeks. The young are weaned by four months and reach sexual maturity around two years of age.

Conservation Status
Most genet species are classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating stable populations across their ranges.