(Cynogale bennettii)

The otter civet is nocturnal, and very seldom seen in the wild. The otter civet at the first glance looks much like any other but a certain distinguishing feature is its short slender tail. An inhabitant of Indo China, Malay, Sumatra and Borneo, the animal is always found close to water either on flooded plains or in mangrove swamps. Well adapted to a semi aquatic existence the nostrils and ears of the otter civet are sealed automatically( like those of the otter) as it dives into the water.

In some aspects the animal emulates the true civet; thus when pursued it will seek refuge high on a tree and not in the water. The otter civet is a comparatively slow swimmer for its feet are not webbed and the short tail is of very little use for propulsion or steering. Nor can it make sudden rapid turns in water to chase its prey. On the other hand the position of its nostrils makes it possible for the animal to stay completely submerged for fairly long periods and to lie silently in ambush