Masked Bandit Caught on Film- Niassa National Reserve in Mozambique is a critically protected area larger than the whole country of Switzerland. It goes without saying that our partners at Niassa Lion Project—who work in the Reserve—constantly come across photos of wildlife besides lions on their camera traps. Can you guess what this species is? If you guessed African civet, you’re right.
Much like a raccoon, this nocturnal animal comes out at night to scrounge for its omnivorous diet of small animals, insects, eggs, and vegetables. In the daytime, the civet can sleep undisturbed thanks to its unique coloration; the black and white stripes and blotches on its fur help it blend into the deep vegetation that it shelters in. The civet is also distinguished by its erectile dorsal crest (that mohawk-like strip of hair going from its head to its tail) and bandit mask markings across its eyes.
Our partners at Niassa Lion Project work to protect lions but their work’s impact reaches far beyond lions, for the good of the entire Reserve and the animals that live within, like this charming little bandit.