Faecal marking behaviour by free-ranging Common genets Genetta genetta and Egyptian mongooses Herpestes ichneutnon in southwestern Spain

Abstract

Studied defecation behaviour of the common gener and the Egyptian mongoose at the Doñana National Park from November 1985 to November 1989. Both species frequently used latrines and more than one individual contributed to latrine formation. Genets placed their latrines in trees situated on the edges of the more frequently used habitats, whereas mongooses defecated on the ground, and their latrines were found within preferred habitats, near to resting sites. Genets increased their marking behaviour in February—March and November—December, and mongooses in January—Febru­ ary and September—October. Latrine switching within the same area was observed in mongooses. Data tend to indicate that latrines are used as a communication tool in both species