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Genet ~~ Genetta Genetta ~~ Genette |
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The Genet is a native mammal of Africa, belonging to the family of Viverridae and was introduced to Spain and south west France in the 12th century by the Saracens who used them to catch rodents in their dwellings before that role was taken over by the domestic cat. Two species exist in Europe, the more common being Genetta genetta which is found in western and southern France and the Iberian peninsular, the other which is very rare is G. genetta isabelae found in Ibiza, Spain and the Balearic islands.
Photo above. Genet, Genetta genetta, Genette, They are very pretty, long and slim, pale grey with dark spots on the body with a boldly dark banded tail, pointed face and quite large pointed ears; they grow up to 60cm in length and their tail can be nearly as long again, but being a creature of the night and also a creature that dislikes the presence of humans they are rarely seen outside of captivity. Although they are omnivores vegetation plays a minor role in their diet and they may well only consume it in the same manner as a cat or dog will. Its main diet consists of other mammals, birds, molluscs and insects, anything up to the size of a rabbit or squirrel will be taken. They are extremely agile, excellent climbers and prefer to be near water where they are good swimmers. Photo, above Genet caught in cage trap then released.
Photo, above Genet "road kill" They are present in most of the western half of France with the possible exception of western Brittany and are generally to be found in wooded areas, often where water is present where they occupy a territory of about 5 square kilometres, using a hole or cavity in an old tree, rock face or something of a similar nature for cover. They have a tendancy to use toilet areas, where excrement will be found in heaps, which is a useful indication of their presence.
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Photo. Genette excrement in heap (above) and with vegetation (below).
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Breeding can take place at almost any time of the year, but the young are normally born during April / May or August / September, producing 1 to 4 young, two litters a year being possible. Their relationship with humans is on balance a positive one, although there is a possibility that chickens and ducks may be taken from time to time, their main diet is rodents which helps control numbers. Populations are not generally threatened although road building can be disruptive locally and road kills do occur. Fully protected species in France with Article 1 protection.
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