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Golden Palm Civet

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Conservation status

IUCN Red List: Near Threatened (NT)

LIFE SPAN
  • In the Wild: Typically 8-10 years
  • In Captivity: Can live up to 15 years
Body size
  • Length: Approximately 45-55 cm (18-22 inches) excluding the tail
  • Tail Length: About 40-50 cm (16-20 inches)
  • Weight: Around 1.5-3 kg (3.3-6.6 lbs)
Native habitat
  • Geographical Range: Endemic to Sri Lanka
  • Habitat: Prefers a variety of forest habitats, including lowland rainforests, montane forests, and dry zone forests. It can also adapt to secondary forests and plantations.
Diet
  • Fruits and Berries: Major component of their diet, aiding in seed dispersal.
  • Small Mammals and Birds: Occasionally hunted for protein.
  • Insects and Other Invertebrates: Supplement their diet with additional nutrients.
  • Nectar and Flowering Plants: Consumed when available, contributing to pollination.
Golden Palm Civet (Paradoxurus zeylonensis)

The Golden Palm Civet is a unique and elusive mammal native to the lush forests of Sri Lanka. With its striking appearance and nocturnal habits, this civet plays a significant role in the island’s biodiversity.

Physical Characteristics: The Golden Palm Civet measures approximately 45-55 cm (18-22 inches) in body length, with an additional tail length of about 40-50 cm (16-20 inches). It weighs between 1.5-3 kg (3.3-6.6 lbs). This civet is distinguished by its golden-brown to reddish-brown fur, which provides excellent camouflage in the forest canopy. Its body is elongated with short legs and a bushy tail, which aids in balance while navigating trees. The civet has a pointed snout, large eyes adapted for night vision, and small, rounded ears.

Habitat: The Golden Palm Civet thrives in various forest habitats across Sri Lanka, including lowland rainforests, montane forests, and dry zone forests. It is arboreal and nocturnal, spending most of its time in the forest canopy. This civet can also adapt to secondary forests and plantations, although it is less commonly seen in these areas.

Diet: The diet of the Golden Palm Civet is diverse and primarily consists of:

  • Fruits and Berries: A major part of their diet, contributing to seed dispersal in the forest.
  • Small Mammals and Birds: Occasionally hunted for protein.
  • Insects and Other Invertebrates: Supplement their diet with additional nutrients.
  • Nectar and Flowering Plants: Consumed when available, aiding in pollination.

Behavior: The Golden Palm Civet is solitary and nocturnal, with individuals typically being active during the night. They are excellent climbers, using their strong limbs and tails to navigate through the trees. These civets are known for their elusive and secretive nature, making them difficult to observe in the wild. They communicate through scent marking and vocalizations, which help maintain territory and signal their presence to others.

Conservation Status: According to the IUCN Red List, the Golden Palm Civet is classified as Near Threatened (NT) due to habitat destruction, deforestation, and hunting pressures. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect their habitats and ensure their survival in the wild. Strategies include habitat restoration, legal protection, and community awareness programs.

Lifespan: In the wild, the Golden Palm Civet typically lives around 8-10 years. In captivity, under optimal care, they can live slightly longer, up to 15 years.

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