About Galidia elegans I.Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, 1837
Taxonomy and Size
The ring-tailed vontsira, with the scientific name Galidia elegans I.Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, 1837, is relatively small, but it is the largest species in the subfamily Galidiinae. Adults typically measure 32 to 38 cm (12.5 to 15 in) in body length, and weigh between 700 and 900 g (25 to 32 oz).
Physical Characteristics
It has a long, slender body, a rounded head with a pointed snout. Its body is dark red, and its feet are black. As its common name suggests, its bushy tail is marked with alternating black and red rings, a pattern similar to that of the red panda.
Behavior and Habitat
Ring-tailed vontsiras are very agile, skilled climbers. They are quite playful and active during the day. They live in humid forests.
Diet
Their diet consists mainly of small mammals, invertebrates, fish, reptiles, birds, and eggs, and they occasionally eat fruit.
Conservation Threats
Between 1989 and 1999, the ring-tailed vontsira population decreased by 20% due to habitat loss. The species also faces threat from competition with the small Indian civet (Viverricula indica).
