Genus Genetta Higher classification Genet | Phylum Chordata Scientific name Genetta servalina Rank Species | |
Similar Giant forest genet, Johnston's genet, Haussa genet, King genet, Angolan genet | ||
Servaline genet
The servaline genet (Genetta servalina) is a genet species native to Central Africa. As it is widely distributed and considered common, it is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
Contents
Characteristics
The servaline genet's fur is rufous with black spots on neck, back and sides. Its feet are black. Its long tail is banded with wide black and narrow white rings. It is short-haired and has a dark broken stripe along the spine. The tip of its tail is bright.
Measurements of male museum specimens range from 490 to 510 mm (19 to 20 in) in head and body with a 450 to 465 mm (17.7 to 18.3 in) long tail. Females range from 445 to 495 mm (17.5 to 19.5 in) in head and body with a 368 to 485 mm (14.5 to 19.1 in) long tail.
Distribution and habitat
Servaline genets are distributed from the Sanaga River in Cameroon southwards to the Congo Basin and eastwards to Uganda and Tanzania.
Distribution of subspecies
A number of servaline genet subspecies are recognised, including:
The crested servaline genet (G. cristata) was also considered to be a subspecies of the servaline genet, but is now generally regarded as a distinct species.