The predator, the common genet, normally lives on the Iberian Peninsula, in northern Italy and in southern France. It can now also be found in Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Germany.

The predator has not yet been found in Poland, American nature TV network National Geographic reported.

The network said that the reason the species is migrating further north is global warming caused by the climate crisis.

The genet looks like a cross between a cat and a marten, National Geographic explained, “but it has nothing in common with either. It is definitely closer to a hyena, but unlike the infamous predator, it is considered one of the most beautiful mammals.”

The species was brought to Europe in the 9th century B.C. by the Phoenicians. National Geographic suggests the Phoenicians were fond of the animal for its beauty, adding that it was easy to domesticate – the genet was kept as a pet, as well as to fend off rodents and birds from supplies.

Genets are often hunted in southern Europe because they pose a nuisance to chicken farmers.

They cost several thousand złoty to buy as pets.