Masked Palm Civet Paguma larvata

The Masked Palm Civet or Himalayan Palm Civet is a small, nocturnal mammal found across Southeast Asia, including India, Nepal, China, and Southeast Asia. It is typically found in forests, plantations, and sometimes near human settlements. It has a distinctive appearance, with a grayish-brown body, a white or cream-colored face with a dark "mask" around its eyes, and a bushy tail. It has a relatively long body (about 40–70 cm) and a tail almost as long as its body, which helps it balance as it moves through the trees.

The Masked Palm Civet is an omnivore, feeding on a wide range of food, including fruits, small animals, birds' eggs, insects, and even some plant material. It is known to be an agile climber, often foraging in the trees at night. It has a solitary and secretive nature, typically avoiding contact with humans. The species is known for its strong scent, which it uses to mark its territory.

IUCN Status: Least Concern

IWLPA: Schedule I

CITES: Appendix III