Planning a trip to Rietvlei Nature Reserve? Download opspoor to see recent sightings in the park and log your own.
When to see Striped Polecat in Rietvlei Nature Reserve
Striped Polecat are most active at night (19:00 to 05:00). Much of their activity falls outside gate hours, so the first drive after the gates open and the last hour before they close give you the best chance.
This is Striped Polecat's general behavior. Once enough sightings are logged in Rietvlei Nature Reserve, this page also shows when they're actually seen here.
About the Striped Polecat
The striped polecat is a small, mostly nocturnal carnivore of sub-Saharan Africa, recognised by its black body, bold white stripes and bushy tail. It occurs in savanna, grassland, woodland and areas with suitable ground cover. It is an opportunistic predator and feeds on insects, rodents, reptiles, amphibians, birds and other small animals, while also taking eggs and carrion. It is generally solitary and relies on its strong scent and distinctive black-and-white warning coloration as defensive adaptations.
How to identify the Striped Polecat
Small, slender mustelid with a black-and-white striped body, dark legs and a bushy tail. A broad white stripe runs along the back and contrasts strongly with the dark body. Often distinguished by its skunk-like pattern.
Other species to look for in Rietvlei Nature Reserve
Other parks where you can see Striped Polecat
Heading to Rietvlei Nature Reserve? opspoor shows where Striped Polecat have been logged recently and lets you log your own, even with no signal.