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A weasel relative, the solitary genet rests during the day high up in a tree or another animal’s abandoned burrow. At night it’s on the move, climbing and leaping from tree to tree in search of small prey. Stalking and pouncing, the genet catches a snack.

front view of a large spotted genet

Did You Know?

Excellent binocular vision enables the genet to accurately judge distances, an important skill for leaping and pouncing.

Quick Facts

Latin Name:
Genetta tigrina

Range:
Southern Africa

Habitat:
Forest, grassland and scrubland

Length:
2 to 3.5 ft

Lifespan:
8 to 10 years

Zoo Location:
Night Hunters

Diet:
Small rodents, birds, reptiles, invertebrates, and fruit