Members of this family are medium sized carnivores with long bodies and short legs. Most species in this family have relatively small heads with short pointed ears and a long, pointed muzzle. Most species also have some form of stripes, bands, or spots on their fur. They have retractable claws and most have scent glands that can be used to mark their territory. The scent in some species is so powerful that it can be used to ward off predators. Most species in this family are solitary and nocturnal and survive entirely on meat. A few do eat some fruits as well but this is not the norm. Also, most members of the Viverridae family are arboreal though a few are not. This family is large with several species but very little is known about most of the viverrids.