Binturong

Binturong

The nocturnal binturong is most closely related to the civet and fossa but looks like a cross between a cat and a bear! It is even called the Asian bear cat and Malay civet cat. A binturong has shaggy hair, white whiskers, and long tufts of hair on the ears. Living mostly in trees, a binturong's legs seem specially built for a rain forest habitat. While the binturong walks flat-footed and has a gait like a bear, it can turn its ankles backward so that its claws can still grip when climbing down a tree head first. The binturong's prehensile tail works like an extra hand when climbing around in the treetops. Baby binturongs have even been seen hanging upside down while completely supported by their tail!

You probably know that most animals have a smell that's all their own—is there any mistaking when a skunk has been around? Well, when the binturong is near, you may suddenly want to go to the movies, because this animal's aroma smells a lot like buttered popcorn! Having a scent helps warn other binturongs to keep moving—this tree or area is already taken!

Binturongs have a very special job in the forests where they are found. Through their poop, they help spread the seeds from the fruits they eat, which helps replant the rain forest!

Area:  

Southeast Asia

Habitat:  

Tropical rain forests

Food: 

 Carrion, small invertebrates, eggs, fish, birds, leaves, and plant shoots

Size:  

2 to 3 feet long (plus 2 to 3 feet of tail!)

Babies:  

Weigh about 5 ounces at birth.

(source:google/http://adminkids.sandiegozoo.org/)