Saharan striped polecat
| Saharan striped polecat | |
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I. libycus
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| Binomial name | |
| Ictonyx libycus (Hemprich & Ehrenberg, 1833)
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| Saharan striped polecat range | |
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The Saharan striped polecat, also known as the Saharan striped weasel, Libyan striped weasel, and the North African striped weasel (Ictonyx libycus) is a species of mammal in the family Mustelidae.[2] This animal is sometimes characterized as being a part of the genus Poecilictis, and its coloration resembles that of the striped polecat.[3] It is found in various North African countries including Algeria, Chad, Egypt, Ethiopia, Libya, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sudan, and Tunisia. It is most often found in those areas that are dry and characterized by very little brush.[4]
Contents
Physical characteristics
Saharan striped polecats are about 55–70 cm in length, including their tails, and generally weigh between .5 and .75 kg. It is striped white in a non-uniform fashion and has black feet, legs, ears, and underside. Often a white ring goes around the face and above a black snout. It is sometimes confused with the striped polecat though it is generally smaller and has distinct facial markings.[5]
Diet
It eats a diet primarily of eggs, small birds, small mammals, and lizards.[6]
Lifestyle and reproduction
The Saharan striped polecat is nocturnal and solitary. It hides out in the day time in other animals' burrows or digs its own. It generally gives birth to one to three completely vulnerable, baby polecats during the spring time.[5]
Defense mechanisms
This creature is known to spray a foul, skunk-like anal emission when threatened.[2] Before releasing the anal emission it will fluff itself up in an attempt to warn the potential attacker.[6]
Relation with humans
In Tunisia these animals are often caught and exploited because of the tribal belief that they may increase male fertility.[4]
References
- ↑ Hoffmann, M., Cuzin, F. & de Smet, K. (2008). Ictonyx libyca. In: IUCN 2008. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Retrieved 21 March 2009. Database entry includes a brief justification of why this species is of least concern
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