New Species for the Hattiesburg Zoo to Make their Debut This Tuesday

Hattiesburg, MS (September 16, 2024) – The habitat that will house a new species at the Hattiesburg Zoo has been completed, and zoo guests can now meet two female African Spotted Genets beginning Tuesday, September 17th.

Monarch and Lacey are a mother-daughter pair, who served as ambassador animals at the Columbian Park Zoo in Indiana. Because of COVID, the ambassador program was halted there, and the pair was kept behind the scenes. Monarch and Lacey’s habitat is a multi-level habitat next to the Hyenas in Africa at the Hattiesburg Zoo.

“These beautiful ladies will love their new home here at the Hattiesburg Zoo,” said Kristen Moore, Director of Wildlife for the Hattiesburg Zoo. “Most people have never seen a Genet, and we are proud that we are able to bring this species to our Zoo so that we can educate our guests about the beauty, grace and importance of this animal.”

Genets are long, lean carnivores that appear catlike with a tail usually as long as (if not longer than) their body. The small-spotted genet, found in more arid regions, is recognized by a prominent dorsal crest running from shoulder to tail. Its spots are round and elongated. All Genets have retractable claws adapted to climbing and catching prey.  Genets are great climbers and can jump three feet from tree to tree.