Viverridae

Viverridae, commonly known as viverrids, is a family of small- to medium-sized carnivorans within the order Carnivora. The group comprises roughly civets and genets, with elongated bodies, short limbs, and long tails. They possess well-developed scent glands and use musk secretions for territorial marking and communication.

Viverrids occur across Africa and Asia, with some species extending into parts of southern Europe. They inhabit a variety of habitats, including tropical forests, savannas, and shrublands, and several species tolerate human-altered landscapes. They are largely nocturnal or crepuscular and are often arboreal or semi-arboreal, though a number of species are terrestrial.

Taxonomically, the family is divided into two major subfamilies: Civets (Viverrinae) and Genets (Genettinae). Representatives include the African civet (Civettictis civetta), large Indian civet (Viverra zibetha), Asian palm civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus), masked palm civet (Paguma larvata), and various genets (Genetta spp.). The group shows notable diversity in size and dentition, reflecting a range of omnivorous diets.

Ecology and behavior: Viverrids are omnivorous, feeding on fruit, insects, small vertebrates, and carrion. They are typically solitary, with territory established by scent marking and, in some species, vocal communication. Reproduction varies by species, with litter sizes often ranging from two to five young.

Conservation: Threats include habitat loss, fragmentation, and hunting for fur or musk. Several species are listed as threatened or vulnerable; some populations persist in protected areas or secondary habitats.