Malabar Civet

Shaheed Bhagat Singh College
Environmental Science Assignment
Topic – Comprehensive Report On The Malabar

Large Civet
Name – Sumit Dwivedi

Roll no – 443
Section – G
Course – B.Com(Hons)
Malabar Large-Spotted Civet: A Conservation
Report
Introduction
The Malabar large-spotted civet (Viverra civettina) is a fascinating and elusive
carnivore native to the Western Ghats of India. In recent years, this species has
faced significant threats due to habitat loss, hunting, and other anthropogenic
pressures. This report aims to provide an overview of the conservation status, legal
protections, historical and present range, ecological significance, threats, and
conservation efforts related to the Malabar large-spotted civet.
1. IUCN Status
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies the Malabar
large-spotted civet as "Critically Endangered" on the IUCN Red List of Threatened
Species. This designation indicates that the species faces a very high risk of
extinction in the wild in the near future. The population trend is decreasing,
primarily due to habitat loss and hunting. The current population is estimated to be
even less than 250 individuals
2. Status according to Wildlife Protection Act 1972

In India, the Malabar large-spotted civet is protected under Schedule I of the
Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. This listing provides the species with the highest
level of legal protection, making it illegal to hunt, capture, trade, or possess the
civet or its parts without appropriate permits from the authorities. The Act also
prohibits any destruction or degradation of its habitat without authorization.
3. CITES (Appendix)
The Malabar large-spotted civet is listed under Appendix I of the Convention on
International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
Appendix I includes species threatened with extinction, and international trade in
specimens of these species is generally prohibited. This listing aims to regulate and
monitor international trade to ensure the species' survival and prevent illegal
trafficking.
4. Historical Range
Historically, the Malabar large-spotted civet inhabited dense forests and scrublands
across the Western Ghats region of India. Its range extended from southern
Maharashtra to Kerala, encompassing the states of Karnataka and Goa. These
civets were once relatively widespread throughout their range but have
experienced significant declines in recent decades.
5. Present Range
The present range of the Malabar large-spotted civet has contracted significantly
due to habitat loss and fragmentation. Today, the species is primarily restricted to
isolated pockets of protected forests and adjacent areas within the Western Ghats.
Fragmentation of its habitat has led to reduced connectivity between populations,
increasing their vulnerability to extinction.
6.Scientific Name
The scientific name of the Malabar large-spotted civet is *Viverra civettina*. This
species belongs to the Viverridae family, which includes civets, genets, and related
carnivores.
7.Relevance towards Economy, Society, Ecology

The Malabar large-spotted civet plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological
balance of its habitat. As an apex predator, it helps regulate prey populations,
including small mammals, birds, and insects. Additionally, the presence of civets
indicates a healthy ecosystem with intact forest habitats. From an economic
perspective, the species contributes to ecotourism, attracting nature enthusiasts and
wildlife photographers to the Western Ghats region. However, the economic
benefits are often overshadowed by the threats facing the species, such as habitat
loss and poaching.
8.Threats to Them
The Malabar large-spotted civet faces numerous threats to its survival, including:
Habitat Loss and Degradation: Deforestation, agriculture, urbanization, and
infrastructure development have resulted in the loss and fragmentation of the
civet's habitat. Conversion of forests into agricultural land and human settlements
reduces the available habitat and isolates populations, leading to genetic
bottlenecks and decreased resilience.
Poaching and Illegal Trade: Civets are often targeted by poachers for their fur,
meat, and scent glands, which are used in traditional medicine and perfume
industries. Illegal hunting and trade pose a significant threat to the species,
especially in areas with limited law enforcement and monitoring.
Human-Wildlife Conflict: Encroachment into civet habitat brings humans and
wildlife into close proximity, increasing the likelihood of conflicts. Civets may raid
crops or livestock, leading to retaliatory killings by farmers. Additionally, road
accidents involving civets are a common occurrence in areas where roads intersect
their habitat.
Climate Change: Climate change can alter habitat conditions and affect the
distribution and abundance of prey species. Increased temperatures, changes in
rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events can disrupt the civet's natural habitat
and food sources, further exacerbating existing threats.
9.Natural Disaster
Natural disasters such as wildfires, floods, and landslides can have devastating
effects on Malabar large-spotted civet populations and their habitats. These events
can destroy forest cover, disrupt ecosystems, and cause direct mortality among
civets and their prey. Climate change may exacerbate the frequency and intensity
of natural disasters, posing an additional threat to the species' survival.
10.Protected Area
Several protected areas within the Western Ghats region serve as important refuges
for the Malabar large-spotted civet. These include national parks, wildlife
sanctuaries, and reserved forests that provide habitat and protection for the species.
Some notable protected areas for civet conservation include:
1.Periyar Tiger Reserve (Kerala):Situated in the Western Ghats, Periyar Tiger

Reserve is a critical habitat for the Malabar large-spotted civet. Its dense forests
provide refuge for the civet, contributing to the conservation of this endangered
species.
2.Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary (Karnataka): As part of the Western Ghats
biodiversity hotspot, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary supports populations of the
Malabar large-spotted civet. Conservation efforts within the sanctuary aim to
preserve the civet's habitat and ensure its long-term survival.
3.Anshi National Park (Karnataka): Anshi National Park, nestled in the Western
Ghats, is home to diverse wildlife, including the Malabar large-spotted civet.
Protection of the park's rich biodiversity benefits the civet and promotes ecosystem
health and resilience.
4.Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary (Maharashtra):Within the Bhimashankar

Wildlife Sanctuary, the Malabar large-spotted civet finds refuge amidst the lush
forests of the Western Ghats. Conservation initiatives in the sanctuary help
mitigate threats and conserve habitat for this elusive species.
5.Silent Valley National Park (Kerala):Silent Valley National Park is a tropical
evergreen forest in the Nilgiri hills of Kerala, established in 1984. It has a core area
of 89.52 square kilometers and a buffer zone of 148 square kilometers. The park is
home to many rare species of flora and fauna, including the Malabar giant squirrel,
lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri langur, Nilgiri tahr, and Peshwa's bat .
11.Efforts to strengthen protection and management of these

protected areas are essential for conserving the Malabar large-
spotted civet and its habitat.
International Initiative, Govt. Initiative

Various international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and
government agencies are involved in initiatives aimed at conserving the Malabar
large-spotted civet and its habitat. These initiatives include:
Research and Monitoring: Scientists and researchers conduct studies to
understand the ecology, behavior, and threats facing the species. Monitoring
programs track population trends, habitat changes, and human-wildlife interactions
to inform conservation strategies.
Habitat Restoration: Efforts are underway to restore degraded habitats and
establish wildlife corridors to improve connectivity between fragmented
populations. Reforestation, agroforestry, and sustainable land management
practices promote habitat restoration and conservation.
Community Engagement: Engaging local communities in conservation efforts is
crucial for the long-term survival of the Malabar large-spotted civet. Community-
based conservation initiatives involve education, awareness, capacity building, and
livelihood alternatives to reduce human-wildlife conflicts and promote coexistence.
Policy and Advocacy: Advocacy efforts aim to strengthen legal protections,
enforce wildlife laws, and advocate for policies that prioritize biodiversity
conservation. Collaboration between government agencies, NGOs, and local
stakeholders is essential for effective policy implementation and enforcement.
12.Cultural Significance
The Malabar large-spotted civet holds cultural significance in the regions where it
is found. In local folklore and traditions, civets are often associated with mystical
beliefs, spiritual significance, and cultural symbolism. Civets may feature in
myths, legends, and rituals, reflecting their cultural importance to indigenous
communities. Additionally, the presence of civets in traditional medicine and
folklore underscores their cultural relevance and historical significance.
13.Conclusion
The conservation of the Malabar large-spotted civet is a complex and multifaceted
challenge that requires concerted efforts from various stakeholders. Addressing the
threats facing the species, such as habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife
conflict, requires a combination of scientific research, policy interventions,
community engagement, and international cooperation. By implementing
conservation measures and raising awareness about the importance of biodiversity
conservation, we can work towards ensuring the long-term survival of the Malabar
large-spotted civet and safeguarding the rich ecosystems of the Western Ghats.
References
1. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. (n.d.). Retrieved from

https://www.iucnredlist.org/
2. Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. (n.d.). Retrieved from
https://envfor.nic.in/legislation/wildlife-protection-act-1972
3. Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and
Flora (CITES). (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.cites.org/

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Shaheed Bhagat Singh College

Environmental Science Assignment

Topic – Comprehensive Report On The Malabar

Name – Sumit Dwivedi

2. Status according to Wildlife Protection Act 1972

7.Relevance towards Economy, Society, Ecology

1.Periyar Tiger Reserve (Kerala):Situated in the Western Ghats, Periyar Tiger

4.Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary (Maharashtra):Within the Bhimashankar

11.Efforts to strengthen protection and management of these

International Initiative, Govt. Initiative

1. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. (n.d.). Retrieved from

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