Noobie: lights, spray, can in front of back tire

[lenkf]

New '09 California GZ owner, new list member. I have a couple observations/questions

1) When engine is running, headlight and front running lights (also turn signals) are lit but back running lights (also turn signals) do not come on. Is this normal for GZ250? Break light works, all turn signals work.

2) While warming up the GZ this cold morning, choke engaged and idling nicely, GZ leaning on the kickstand, I noticed 2 spots from spray growing on the dry cement under the bike, well forward of the muffler's exhaust port. One seemed to be emanating from a small rubber hose sticking out from the bottom of the frame. couldn't tell where the other was from, though possibly from a joint in the exhaust line. What are these fine mists from?

3) Under the frame, behind the engine and just forward of the rear tire, is a "can" with holes in the end. The holes are pointing towards the rear tire. Is this a Catalytic converter?

Thanks.

Fred