Table of Contents
Quick Facts
| Name | Asian Palm Civet |
| Origin | Southeast and South Asia |
| Size | Length: 43-71 cm (17-28 inches) Weight: 1.4-5 kg (3-11 lbs) |
| Lifespan | 15-20 years |
| Coat | Coarse and short fur, typically gray to brown with black spots and stripes. The face has a distinctive mask-like appearance. |
| Temperament | Generally shy and elusive but can become somewhat tame with regular human interaction. |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate |
| Training Difficulty | High |
| Health Issues | Susceptible to common illnesses such as respiratory infections and parasites. |
| Grooming Needs | Low |
| Price | $500 to $4,000 |
Introduction: Asian Palm Civet
The Asian Palm Civet or Paradoxurus Hermaphroditus commonly referred as toddy cat is one of the small mammals species of South & South East Asia. This small mammal that is primarily famous for being used in preparation of the famous kopi luwak, the world’s costliest coffee, is studied here today due to its nocturnal behavior. But apart from it being a gourmet coffee, the Asian Palm Civet, it has a colorful past and has its own peculiarities as members of the animal kingdom.
History and Origin
Wild populations of the Asian Palm Civet are found in many countries of the Indian subcontinent, Philippines and southern China. These animals have over the years adjusted to living in different areas such as the forests, agricultural fields and even the urban setting. Ability to feed on plant and animal products and the fact that they live mostly in trees have made it possible for them to live in different areas. Civets and humans have been the companion for several centuries mainly owing to their symbiotic existence based on the civets pest control activities in agricultural practices.
Physical Appearance
Concerning the characteristics of Asian Palm Civets they are small sized animals which resemble cats and have long bodies and a long bushy tail. It is usually between 2 to 5 kilograms and its body length with the included tail is about 48 up to 59 cm. Their skin has a rough fur coat with gray or dark brown color with stripes or spots on the overall body and specific mask-like stains on the heads. They have special claws and muscular appendages and also they are good climbers.
Temperament and Personality
The Wild Pig, also known as Asian Palm Civets, are alone and, as a rule, nocturnal, and discretionarily active. They usually flee humans and any form of physical contact, but when exposed to such disturbance for years for an instance in zoological gardens, they learnt to adapt. Despite their habit being a rather lonely one, they use calls, urine and other body signals. Some civet species are known to be territorial and its behaviors can get hostile if it feels so.
Exercise and Activity Needs
Asian Palm Civets are found to be nocturnal animals that are most times of the day seen moving from tree to tree searching for their food and generally moving around the jungle. They need large spaces and things to interfere with their natural environment when in captivity. The emphasis should be put on ensuring they engage in climbing, search for hide and even forage in order to be mentally and physically challenged.
Grooming and Care
The maintenance of Asian Palm Civets as far as grooming is concerned is relatively easy because they do it themselves. Males, like cats, take a bath regularly so as to maintain their fur in the best condition possible. Parasites may be present, and so one must make sure that the home environment is kept clean for them and their eggs. It is recommended that they be taken often to the vet for a check up and grooming.
Health and Common Concerns
Asian Palm Civets are reported to be healthy animals; however, they are also known to be prone to few diseases. This causes stress-related diseases to affect them if their requirements on environmental and feeding are not regarded in captivity. Some diseases that are often encountered are upset stomachs, worms, and teeth disorders. They need to feed on a proper diet, take their vaccination and other checkups as appropriate, and be placed in an environment with low stress levels.
Training and Socialization
Training an Asian Palm Civet is a bit difficult because of their shy and nocturnal behavior but early socialization makes them accommodate in the culture. This means that positive influencing strategies can be applied when practicing on the subject for the purpose of promoting good practices. One has to be very delicate in dealing with them to gain their trust. They can vice versa become accustomed to interacting with people and handling things that are present in daily lives.
Conclusion
Specifically, the Asian Palm Civet is an interesting species that was unknown to me earlier and thus has some special features and demands. One must know the past, what they do, and how one should take care of them if interested in the species in the wild, or in human custody. If necessary precautions and bearing with their natural instincts are taken, Asian Palm Civets would be capable of living and in return, amaze people who come across it.
Image Source: Getty Images
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