The common genet (Genetta genetta) is a spotted animal with a dirty-white coat, black spots forming a line from head to tail, a crest of black fur along its back, white patches around the eyes and a black-and-white ringed tail with a white tip. It lives in woodland and riverine areas and is a welcome surprise on a Kruger Park safari.
Name
Common Genet [Genetta genetta]
Appearance
The common Genet is a bit smaller than the Greater Genet. The markings of the common genet are more distinct than that of the Greater Genet. Its tail is white at the tip with a dirty white colouring of the coat. It has black spots that create a line from the head to the tail. It has a crest of black fur running down its back with white patches around the eyes. It has alternating black and white rings on its tail.
Diet
The Common Genet has a diet that consists mostly of small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, insects and birds. It has been recorded that the Common genet eats less fruit than the Greater Genet.
Breeding
The Common genet gives birth to two litters a year each containing 2-3 young. The Common Genet has a gestation period of 75 days. The young are able to consume solid foods at about six weeks old but still suckle on their mothers.
Behaviour
The Common Genet are mostly solitary animals that are rarely seen in pairs which is mostly during mating season. They tend to inhabit woodland areas and riverine areas. It stays in the trees during the day but can also be found in holes. Common Genets are found up in trees during the day and are a welcome surprise during a Kruger Park Safari.
Habitat
The Common Genet prefers Woodland areas as well as riverine areas to call home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the common genet different from the greater genet?
The common genet is a bit smaller than the greater genet, and its markings are more distinct. It has also been recorded eating less fruit than the greater genet.
What does a common genet eat?
The common genet’s diet consists mostly of small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, insects and birds. Fruit makes up less of its diet than it does for the greater genet.
How do common genets breed?
The common genet gives birth to two litters a year, each containing two to three young, after a gestation period of 75 days.
Where do common genets spend the day?
Common genets stay up in the trees during the day, but they can also be found in holes. They prefer woodland and riverine areas, where spotting one is a welcome surprise.
Are common genets solitary?
Yes — common genets are mostly solitary animals. They are rarely seen in pairs, and when they are, it is mostly during the mating season.
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