Zoey Binturong
IUCN: Vulnerable
The largest member of the mongoose family, binturongs (Arctictis binturong), or bearcats, are native to the tall forests of South and Southeast Asia. Despite their name, they are neither related to bears nor cats, though some of their features may resemble them. As for personality, Zoey was a sweet and fun animal ambassador who endeared herself to all who met her.
Although mostly arboreal, binturongs aren't as acrobatic as primates and generally walk like bears on the ground to get from tree to tree. To make up for what they lack in athleticism, binturongs are able to rotate their ankles 180 degrees in order to grip tree trunks as they descend. For added security in treetops, binturongs use their long prehensile tails as an extra limb.
Binturongs are considered vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Urbanization, agriculture, and deforestation are among the threats to this species.
Fun Fact: Binturongs' scent is often compared to that of freshly made popcorn! Both males and females rub this odor on foliage and branches as they move about in order to mark their territories.
Although mostly arboreal, binturongs aren't as acrobatic as primates and generally walk like bears on the ground to get from tree to tree. To make up for what they lack in athleticism, binturongs are able to rotate their ankles 180 degrees in order to grip tree trunks as they descend. For added security in treetops, binturongs use their long prehensile tails as an extra limb.
Binturongs are considered vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Urbanization, agriculture, and deforestation are among the threats to this species.
Fun Fact: Binturongs' scent is often compared to that of freshly made popcorn! Both males and females rub this odor on foliage and branches as they move about in order to mark their territories.