About
Masked palm civet (Paguma larvata). Notable for the white marking in the center of the face, it is widely distributed in forests from East Asia to Southeast Asia. It can also inhabit high-elevation areas and occupy attics or tree cavities near human settlements. The body is about the size of a domestic cat, and it uses secretions from its anal glands for marking. Omnivorous, it eats fruits, small animals, seafood, insects, and agricultural crops. Nocturnal and generally solitary, though individuals are sometimes seen in groups. Breeds once a year; gestation is about two months and up to four young are born. The IUCN classifies it as Least Concern, but in Japan it is regarded as an introduced species and the damage it causes is a matter of concern.