We are going to end the week of Wild Facts with a little animal known as the Genet. While these animals are related to cats, they are actually more closely related to the Mongoose and the Civet. There are 14 species of Genet, with all but the Common Genet being found exclusively in Africa. This rebellious species can also be found in Europe and parts of the Middle East. Interesting that out of 14 different species, only one of them had the courage to be adventurous and travel to different parts of the world. Now it is time for ourselves to be adventurous, so pack your bags as we are taking a trip to Africa to learn about the Genetta genus as a whole.

Finish Your Dinner or You Won’t Get Dessert

While the Genet is classified as a hungry carnivore, they would actually be better described as an omnivore. That’s right, this Mongoose-Cat-like animal likes to mix up their all meat diet with scrumptious fruit. To be honest, they will pretty much eat anything they can get their paws on, including scorpions, insects, shrews, bats, birds, frogs and the list goes on. Not only will they eat anything but the Genet is known to be a wasteful eater, usually only consuming the head or breast of their prey. See what happens when you don’t have parents telling you to finish everything on your plate so you can grow up big and strong….you waste most of your food!

A Contradictory Creature

The contradictions with this animal continue as they are classed as being nocturnal but in the rainy season are often seen exploring their habitat during the daylight hours. Similarly, this confusing little animal is also thought to be arboreal (living in the trees), however, they spend a large chunk of their time on the ground hunting for tasty heads and breasts. While on the ground they will usually take shelter in large rock outcrops and escarpments as they can fit in any space that is large enough to push their head through. It is a good thing these little creatures are not claustrophobic.

Genet Fast Fact

The female Genet is thought to be territorial as they will often return to the same area after being captured. The solitary males on the other hand seem to have no desire returning to their original home…..or they are just get lost and refuse to ask for directions.