Common palm civets are called Paradoxurus hermaphroditus because both males and femals have a perineal scent gland resembling testicles.
Both males and females of the common palm civet have a perineal scent gland under their tail, resembling testicles; the feature that gave them their scientific name, Paradoxurus hermaphroditus.
This gland is located within a double-pocket pouch under the skin of the abdomen, and is used to spray in defense, to mark territory, and for communication with others of the species.
Sources: (Burton, 1968; Larivière, 2003; Nelson, 2013; Wemmer & Murtaugh, 1981)
Image: Sofig (Sophie Grail)
