Nandinia binotata, commonly known as the African palm civet, is a small, secretive mammal found in tropical forests across sub-Saharan Africa. It has a long body, short legs, a bushy tail, and spotted fur. Nocturnal by nature, it is an agile climber that feeds on fruits, insects, and small vertebrates.

Nandinia binotata, commonly known as the African palm civet, is native to sub-Saharan Africa. Its geographical distribution extends from the West African countries such as Senegal and Gambia, across Central Africa, including countries like Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, to East Africa, reaching as far as Kenya and Tanzania. It is also found in parts of southern Africa, including Angola and Zambia.

The African palm civet inhabits a variety of environments, primarily favoring tropical and subtropical forests. It is often found in rainforests, both primary and secondary, as well as in woodland and savanna regions. The species is known to thrive in areas with dense vegetation that provide ample cover, such as thick underbrush and forested riverbanks. The climate in these regions is typically warm and humid, with significant rainfall.

Nandinia binotata is primarily nocturnal and arboreal, spending much of its time in trees. It is an omnivorous species, with a diet that includes fruits, small mammals, insects, and occasionally birds. Its role in the ecosystem includes seed dispersal due to its fruit consumption, and it acts as both predator and prey within its habitat. The species is adaptable and can live in proximity to human settlements, often utilizing agricultural areas and plantations.