Civet
Animals

Origin:
Civets (Viverridae) are small to medium-sized mammals belonging to the family Civetidae. They are native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia. This diverse species includes over 30 species, the best known being the African civet (Civettictis civetta) and the palm civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus).
Specifics:
Appearance: Civets have long, slender bodies, short legs, bushy tails, and faces resembling those of a fox or cat. Their fur is often spotted or striped, which helps them blend in with their surroundings.
Size: Size varies by species, reaching a body length of 40–80 cm and weighing 1–15 kg.
Behavior: Most species of civet are nocturnal and solitary. They are excellent climbers and spend much of their time in trees, but some species are more terrestrial. They are omnivores, feeding on fruits, small mammals, birds, insects and plant foods.
Interesting facts:
Civet coffee: One of the best-known facts about civets is their role in the production of civet coffee (kopi luwak). This rare coffee is obtained from beans that civets consume, partially digest and then excrete. Digestive enzymes change the taste of the beans, making them a sought-after and expensive commodity.
Civet oil: Some species of civet produce civet oil, a substance with a distinctive aroma that is used in the perfume industry. This oil is traditionally obtained in a sustainable way, but has historically been associated with less ethical practices.
Adaptability: Civets are highly adaptable and can survive in a variety of environments, from dense rainforests to the edges of human settlements.
Occurrence:
Civets are found in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia. They live in a variety of habitats, from rainforests, savannas, to areas close to human settlements. Their presence is often associated with the abundance of fruit trees, which form a significant part of their diet.
Civet hunting:
Civet hunting is regulated and in some areas permitted as part of population control or for trophy purposes. Their skins and oil have commercial value, although in modern times these practices have been replaced by alternatives. When hunting civets, it is important to respect local regulations and protect populations from overhunting. In some countries, civets are farmed for the production of civet oil or civet coffee.