A small, cat-like mammal native to Southeast Asian forests, including Thailand, Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo. At first glance, it looks a bit like a cross between a mongoose and a raccoon, but it belongs to its unique branch of the civet family. What makes it immediately stand out are the bold black bands and stripes that run across its back, shoulders, and tail, which contrast beautifully with its yellowish or gray-brown fur. These markings not only give it a striking appearance but also help it blend into the dappled shadows of the forest, making it harder for predators to spot. Compared to other civets, which often have spotted or blotched coats, the banded palm civet’s clear, zebra-like patterning makes it one of the most distinctive members of its group.

Another feature that sets the banded palm civet apart is its arboreal lifestyle. While many civets spend most of their time on the ground, this species is a skilled climber that spends a lot of time in trees. Its slender body, sharp claws, and long tail make it perfectly adapted for life among the branches. It is also nocturnal, becoming active at night to forage.

Unlike some of its more omnivorous relatives that eat fruit, insects, and even small vertebrates, the banded palm civet is thought to be more of a carnivore, focusing heavily on small animals like rodents, birds, insects, and other invertebrates. This difference in diet makes it a more specialized predator within the civet family, helping to keep small animal populations in check in its forest habitat.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Brunei

2015

Indonesia

2015

Sumatera, Kalimantan

Malaysia

2015

Myanmar

2015

Thailand

2015