Civet, << SIHV iht, >> is a furry mammal that looks somewhat like a long, slender cat. But a civet has a more pointed snout, a fluffier tail, and shorter legs than a cat. Civets live in Asia from India to Indonesia, and in Africa. The spotted skunk, found in most parts of the United States, is sometimes called a civet cat, though it is not a civet.
Civets vary in color and size. Their fur may be black, brown, gray, or tan. Most species, including the banded palm civet of Asia and the African civet, have dark spots or splotches, and the tail has rings of light and dark fur. A few species—such as the masked palm civet and the small Indian civet, both found in Asia—have a plain coat or only faint spots.
Civets range from about 13 inches (33 centimeters) to about 38 inches (97 centimeters) long. In addition, their muscular tail is sometimes as long as the rest of the body. Civets use their tail to grasp branches and to steady themselves while climbing trees.
Civets live within a specific area called a territory. Most kinds of civets climb well and spend much of their time in trees. Some civets sleep in tree holes or among tangled branches. A few species live mostly on the ground and dig burrows. Civets move about chiefly at night. They live alone, except for females and their young. Most civets eat birds, frogs, insects, rodents, and small reptiles. Excellent hearing, sight, and smell help civets hunt their prey. Civets also eat fruit and other parts of plants and the eggs of various animals. Palm civets feed chiefly on plants.
Some civets live near farmhouses and in villages. They help people by feeding on mice and rats, but they also may eat chickens and raid fruit orchards.
Civets mark their territory with a foul-smelling liquid from a gland near the base of the tail. Perfume manufacturers have used the liquid, called civet musk, from several species, especially the African civet. Civet musk makes the odor of perfume last longer.
