Watercolor illustration of Common palm civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus)

Common palm civet

Paradoxurus hermaphroditus

Least Concern
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About

<em>Paradoxurus hermaphroditus</em> is a medium-sized viverrid mammal in the family Viverridae, distributed across South and Southeast Asia. The species inhabits a broad range of ecosystems, including tropical and subtropical forests, plantations, agricultural edges, and urban environments. It is primarily nocturnal and arboreal, foraging in tree canopies as well as on the ground. As an opportunistic omnivore, it typically consumes fruits, berries, small vertebrates, invertebrates, and occasionally birds' eggs, playing a role in seed dispersal for a variety of fruiting plant species. The common palm civet is famously associated with the production of kopi luwak, a specialty coffee made from beans that have passed through its digestive tract, raising ethical concerns about the captive keeping of wild civets for this industry. The IUCN currently assesses this species as Least Concern given its wide distribution and tolerance of modified habitats. No country-level distribution records are present in current datasets, though the species is broadly distributed across the Indo-Malayan realm. Biological traits including precise lifespan estimates, body measurements, and standardized dietary data remain poorly documented in comprehensive databases. Conservation pressures include hunting and the exotic pet trade.

Habitat & Distribution

Typically found in diverse terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.

Conservation Status

LC Least Concern

Names in Other Languages

German Palmenroller

Similar Species in Paradoxurus

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the scientific name of Common palm civet?
The scientific name of Common palm civet is Paradoxurus hermaphroditus. It belongs to the genus Paradoxurus.
What is the conservation status of Common palm civet?
Common palm civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus) is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.
What family does Common palm civet belong to?
Common palm civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus) belongs to the genus Paradoxurus, which is part of the taxonomic family Viverridae.
Is Common palm civet endangered?
No, Common palm civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus) is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, meaning it is not currently at significant risk of extinction.
What kingdom does Common palm civet belong to?
Common palm civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus) belongs to the kingdom Animalia (Animals).
What are the closest relatives of Common palm civet?
The closest relatives of Common palm civet in the genus Paradoxurus include Brown palm civit, Jerdon's palm civit, Golden palm civit.

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