Home > Facts > Animal Facts > African golden cat Facts

African golden cat Facts

African golden cat Facts
African golden cat is a type of wild cat that inhabits western and central parts of Africa. There are two subspecies of African golden cat that differs in color and type of habitat. African golden cat can be found in tropical rainforests, bamboo forests and cloud forests at the altitude of up to 9.800 feet. Pygmy tribes in Africa use tail of African golden cat as a lucky charm that ensures good luck during the hunt on the elephants. African golden cats are threatened by habitat loss and by depletion of their natural prey (antelopes). These animals are listed as nearly threatened (they may become endangered in the near future).
Interesting African golden cat Facts:
African golden cat can reach 24 to 40 inches in length and 12 to 35 pounds of weight. Tail is 6.3 to 18.1 inches long. Males are larger than females.
African golden cat has either reddish-brown or grey fur. Some animals have spots on their back, belly or on their entire body. Completely black African golden cats (melanistic) are rare in the nature.
African golden cats often change color of their fur from red to grey in captivity. This transformation usually happens after a period of 4 months.
African golden cat has rounded head that is small compared to the rest of the body. It has brown eyes and short, rounded ears.
Most African golden cats are either crepuscular (active during the dusk and dawn) or nocturnal (active during the night) animals. Their activity depends on the habitat and type of the prey.
African golden cat is carnivore (meat-eater). Its diet consists of hyraxes, small antelopes, birds, monkeys and livestock (especially poultry).
African golden cat often stalks its prey and rushes to grab it at the right moment.
African golden cat is agile climber, but it hunts and spends most of its life on the ground.
African golden cat is known as "leopard's brother" because these two species share the same habitat. Also, African golden cat often follows leopards.
African golden cat is territorial animal. It uses scent and feces to mark its territory.
African golden cat is solitary creature most of its lifetime, except during the mating season.
Pregnancy in females lasts 75 to 78 days and ends with one or two kittens. Mother gives birth in well hidden den, usually in hollow tree.
Kittens have only 6.3 to 8.3 ounces at birth, but they grow and develop quickly. Their eyes will open after 7 days, and they will be able to walk 10 to 13 days after birth. Youngsters will include solid food in their diet after 40 days.
Males reach sexual maturity at the age of 18 months, females at the age of 11 months.
African golden cat can survive up to 12 years in captivity. Lifespan in the wild is unknown.


Related Links:
Facts
Animal Facts
Animals Facts