Malagasy Civet (Fanaloka)

## Background Information

### Alternate Name(s)

Spotted civet, Striped civet, Malagasy spotted civet, Fanaloka, Spotted fanaloka

## Classification

### Species

F. fossana

The Malagasy civet ***(Fossa fossana)*** also commonly known as the fanaloka, is a small carnivore endemic to the island of Madagascar. One of the most identifiable characteristics of the Malagasy civet, is its dark brown spotted patterns which form 4 lines on the animal's sides, which have given the civet the alternate names of spotted or striped civet. Malagasy civets have a slim and narrow frame, resembling other Euplerid species. These civets appear canine-like in terms of facial features. These civets have dark eyes and small noses, they also have triangular or pointed ears. Malagasy civets have coarse, short, light brown fur which lightens to a cream colour on their underbelly and darkens towards the tip of their tail. Their tails are ringed with dark brown bands and they also have dark greyish brown markings on their muzzle and brows. Malagasy civets are the second largest predators on Madagascar, and they can measure up to 40-45cm (15.75-17.72in) and can weigh 1.5-2kg (3.30-4.41lbs).

## Diet

Malagasy civets are known to prey on small mammal species such as rodents and tenrecs. Malagasy civets hunt at night when they are most active. They will typically forage for food in dense vegetation, such as brush or low trees. Fat is stored in the Malagasy civet's tales for the Winter months. This fat can account for 25% of the Malagasy civet's total weight.

## Conservation Status

As it is restricted to forested areas, the Malagasy civet is threatened by agricultural development that warrants deforestation in its habitat. Further selective deforestation for the use of charcoal production also threatens the species. Due to this, the Malagasy civet's range has continued to decrease by 20%+ annually over the past years. Illegal housing is often constructed in protected areas, specifically surrounding the Antongil bay area. The housing implemented in this area is to accommodate for the growing population of quartz miners in the region. Invasive species that these people bring into protected areas can easily disrupt Malagasy civet populations. Animals such as domestic dogs ***(Canis lupus familiaris)*** and cats ***(Felis catus)*** often hunt Malagasy civets and if this hunting is not controlled, it may spell disaster for the species' already uncertain future. Through surveys conducted by Madagasikara Voakajy in East Madagascar during 2008-2009, revealed that 31% of the local population had consumed Malagasy civet meat during the preceding year, which is the highest rate out of all Euplerids. Obviously this is a problem, as it proves that consumption and capture of Malagasy civets are ongoing. Malagasy civets will also avoidtheir usual habitats and favoured areas if they detect cat and small Indian civet ***(Viverricula indica)*** activity in the area. With all of these issues combined, the Malagasy civet is classed as a vulnerable species by the IUCN.

## Range and Population

Malagasy civets can only be found in eastern Madagascar, where they inhabit dense rainforests and occasionally coastline environments. Malagasy civets can be found in abundance at the Masoala peninsular and the Mananara rainforests. In terms of altitudinal range the Malagasy civet can be found at elevations ranging around 1000m (3280ft). Currently, the Malagasy civet population is unknown however, it is unfortunately in a declining state due to the reasons listed above.

## Behaviour

Malagasy civets are monogamous animals and partners will mark their shared territory (50ha (120ac)) through the use of chemical scent marking. The scent markings are produced via the civet's anogenital neck and cheek gland. As Malagasy civets are nocturnal, they are active entirely at night however, the species is not thought to be solitary, instead travelling in mating pairs. Malagasy civets mate during the months of August-September, with a gestation period of 3 months, resulting in the birth of a single cub. The cub is weaned within 2-3 months and will leave their parents at 1 year of age. Malagasy civets are said to be bellow average climbers, not being dexterous in trees. The calls of the Malagasy civet have been described as mournful sounding cries, or sounds that mirror the sound effect *'coq-coq'*.

### Relationship with Humans

Being extremely skittish and nocturnal, the Malagasy civet attempts to avoid human contact at all times. It can be noted that when in the presence of humans or dogs, the Malagasy civet will decrease its temporal activity to remain inconspicuous. Despite their best efforts to distance themselves from humans, Malagasy civets can be easily lured with bait, allowing for common tourist interaction with the species.

## In Captivity

The Malagasy civet can only be found at Capital of Texas Zoo, Texas, USA. This zoo is currently the only place where one can hope to see a Malagasy civet in captivity.

## Sources

* IUCN Red List of Threatened Species - https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/8668/45197868
* Malagasy Civet | Animal Diversity Web, University of Michigan Museum of Zoology - https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Fossa\_fossana/
* Malagasy Civet | ZOOINSTITUES - https://zooinstitutes.com/animals/malagasy-civet-4805/
* Malagasy Civet | Wikipedia - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malagasy\_civet