Factors determining "gaps" in the distribution of a small carnivore, the common genet (Genetta genetta), in central Spain

We studied the pattern of distribution of the common genet (Genetta genetta ) in areas in mountains and plains of central Spain, in the middle of the r ange of the species. We evaluated the role of temperature, rainfall, and ha bitat features in determining the ecological limits of genet distribution. Genets were very scarce on plateaux and the upper parts of the mountains, b ut were widely distributed in lower mountain areas. Genets were present in areas with abundant shrub cover, high mean of the mean minimum temperature and high mean of mean winter temperatures. Survey routes at the same altitu de (< 1000 m) in the mountains (genets abundant) and on the plateaux (genet s very scarce) also differed in some of these variables, with low values on the plateaux for shrub cover, mean of the mean minimum temperatures, mean of the mean winter temperatures, and annual rainfall. Genets originated in Africa, therefore they are probably ill-adapted (morphologically and physio logically) for the cold conditions predominating in most of central Spain. Their preference for shrubby habitats may be linked to a greater availabili ty of food and low risk of predation. Intermediate levels of rainfall may b e correlated with higher temperatures, the key factor hypothesized to affec t the distribution of this species. The distribution of the common genet fi ts a multimodal model, with peaks (presence) and valleys (absence) in the m iddle of its range, indicating that location in a particular part of the ra nge is not a prior indicator of habitat suitability for the species.