Rannas

Rannas, also known as Rana, are a group of small, nocturnal mammals native to the Indian subcontinent. They belong to the family Viverridae and are closely related to civets and genets. Rannas are characterized by their long, slender bodies, short legs, and a distinctive, bushy tail. They have a varied diet, including insects, small mammals, and fruits, and are known for their ability to climb trees and swim.

There are two main species of ranna: the Indian ranna (Viverra zibetha) and the Sri Lankan ranna (Viverra civettina). The Indian ranna is found in a wide range of habitats, from forests to grasslands, while the Sri Lankan ranna is more restricted to forests. Both species are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, but they face threats from habitat loss and hunting.

Rannas play a significant role in their ecosystems as predators and seed dispersers. They are also of cultural and economic importance in some regions, where their fur is used in traditional medicine and for making jewelry. Conservation efforts for rannas focus on protecting their habitats and reducing human-wildlife conflict.