One of the rarest and most endangered mammals in the world, and sadly, also one of the least understood. Found only in a small region along the Western Ghats of Kerala, India, this elusive creature is a member of the genus Viverra and is closely related to the large Indian civet. Once believed to be widespread in the region, it is now possibly on the brink of extinction, with only a handful of unconfirmed sightings in recent years. Its rarity, combined with the mystery surrounding its habits and current status, makes it a haunting symbol of what can be lost when natural habitats disappear.

The Malabar large-spotted civet is named for its striking coat, which features a pale grayish base color covered in large, bold black spots and dark stripes along the back. Its long, bushy tail is ringed with alternating dark and light bands, and its face has the typical civet “mask” — a combination of dark markings around the eyes and muzzle that gives it a sharp, expressive look. It is a medium-sized carnivore, with a body built for stealth: long and flexible, with short, sturdy legs and sharp claws for digging or climbing when needed.

Like other civets, this species is believed to be nocturnal and solitary, spending its nights searching for food on the forest floor. It is an omnivore, likely feeding on small mammals, birds, reptiles, insects, and fruits, but direct observations are scarce. Historically, it was known to roam coastal forests, swamps, and lowland evergreen habitats, but these landscapes have now been heavily altered or destroyed by urban development, agriculture, and plantation expansion. Today, it may survive only in tiny forest fragments — if at all.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

India

<250

Official estimate

CR

2015

Possibly Extinct, Origin Uncertain