CIVETS Meaning and
Definition
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Civets, also known as Viverridae, refer to a family of small to medium-sized carnivorous mammals belonging to the order Carnivora. They are predominantly found in the tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and southern Europe. Civets are characterized by their long, slender bodies and a distinct pointed snout, resembling a combination of a cat and a mongoose.
These creatures have a diverse diet, feeding on a range of food items including fruits, insects, small vertebrates, and even carrion. They possess specialized teeth and strong jaws to accommodate this varied diet. Moreover, civets are known for their unique ability to digest coffee cherries and excrete the partially digested beans, which are then harvested to produce a variety of coffee known as "civet coffee" or "kopi luwak."
Civets are primarily nocturnal animals, displaying solitary behavior except during breeding seasons. The females typically give birth to litters of two to four offspring after a relatively long gestation period. They construct nests in dens or hollow trees for shelter and protection.
Civets have also gained a degree of attention for their distinct scent glands, which produce a musky secretion known as "civetone." Historically, this secretion has been utilized in the production of perfumes and scents due to its unique fragrance. However, the use of civetone in these industries has declined significantly due to concerns over animal welfare.
Overall, civets are intriguing animals that occupy a crucial ecological role in their respective habitats, contributing to the biodiversity and balance of the ecosystems they inhabit.
Common Misspellings for CIVETS
Etymology of CIVETS
The word "civets" is derived from the Old French word "civet", which originated from the Arabic word "zabād". In Arabic, "zabād" refers to a aromatic substance, specifically a type of musk obtained from the glands of civets. This word was later borrowed into various European languages, including Old French, and then eventually into English to refer to both the animal and the musk-like substance.
Similar spelling words for CIVETS
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