The binturong (Arctictis binturong) is an Asian animal that has particular characteristics, making it stand out within the viverrid family to the which one belongs One of these features is that it is considered the largest species within its group, given its dimensions. The binturong is also known as the shawl or bear cat, although it does not particularly resemble one of these animals.
On the other hand, it plays an important role in the ecosystems it inhabits, however, it has not escaped human actions, which is why it has been included in the Union's red list International for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) for its degree of population decline. In this article on our site we present information on the binturong, its characteristics, habitat, feeding and reproduction.
Taxonomic classification of the binturong
The shawl or bear cat is taxonomically classified as follows:
- Animal Kingdom
- Filo: Chordate
- Class: Mammal
- Order: Carnivora
- Family: Viverridae
- Genus: Arctictis
- Species: Arctictis binturong
Regarding the existence of Arctictis binturong subspecies, some scientists recognize nine, however, more recent positions express the need to review this classification due to various controversies in this regard [1].
Characteristics of the binturong
As we mentioned, it is the largest species among viverrids, with a weight range between 9 and 20 kg. As for the length, it can be close to 100 cm, although the length of the tail should be added to this figure, since it can measure close to 90 cm. In addition, the tail of the binturong is characterized by being prehensile, making it one of the few carnivores with this peculiarity.
Continuing with the characteristics of the binturong, it has a fairly long coat, black and rough, possibly with gray tips. The hair on the face is less abundant and is usually somewhat lighter, with grayish or slightly lighter stripes over the eyes; it also has whiskers of white hairs. The ears are small, with tufts of hair protruding from them. As for the eyes, they are also small, reddish-brown in color.
Sexual dimorphism in the binturong is present in relation to size, as females are slightly larger than males.
Binturong customs
The shawl or bear cat, although not very territorial, has solitary habits and generally avoids other individuals of the species. It is of arboreal habits, for which it relies on its prehensile tail. However, given its weight, in some cases it is difficult for it to jump between trees, which is why it also develops activity on the ground to move from one plant to another.
There are contradictory reports regarding the hours in which it develops more activity, since some report that they are generally nocturnal or twilight, with little action during daylight hours, while other studies have indicated that the species is active during the day [2] Another of its customs is the ability to swim in order to get food.
The binturong communicates mainly by smell, because both the male and the female have two glands next to the anus. The female also has two additional glands next to the vulva. These structures produce an odor that has been described as similar to that of popcorn, which is left on the trees, so it is a way of indicating their presence in the area. It also uses certain vocalizations such as growls, howls and a kind of whistle to communicate.
Where does the binturong live?
The binturong is a species native to Asia, to countries such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Democratic Republic Lao People, Malaysia Myanmar, Nepal, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam.
Regarding the habitat of the binturong, in some countries such as the Lao People's Democratic Republic, this animal thrives in large areas of evergreen forest. While in others, such as the Philippines, it occurs in both primary and secondary lowland forests, but also in grasslands. It generally lives at heights from almost sea level to 400 m, and exceptionally it has been sighted almost at 1000 m.a.s.l.
On the other hand, the binturong can thrive in some forest and even abandoned ecosystems, which have been logged. However, there is no evidence to show that it is in intervened spaces that remain active.
What do binturong eat?
Although taxonomically it is located in the order of carnivorous animals, the feeding of the binturong is based especially on fruits, particularly from a fig tree strangler like the species Ficus altissima, so its diet is preferably fruitful.
However, it can also consume other plant parts such as shoots and leaves, as well as insects, fish, small birds, rodents, eggs and even carrion, so that in a strict sense it is an omnivorous animal.
Playing the Bearcat
Females become sexually mature at two and a half years, while males do so a little earlier. The species has higher reproductive rates from January to March, although can reproduce throughout the year Males are usually defensive towards females, except when they they are receptive, a fact that they communicate through purrs. Gestation lasts 90-92 days and litters are usually two pups, although they can be more, with a maximum of six.
Newborn binturongs weigh an average of 142 grams, their eyes are closed, and they remain hidden within the mother's fur for the first few days. Weaning occurs between 6 and 8 weekss. Generally, the care of the litter is done only by the mother and it is common to see females alone with their young, but eventually some males share the activity until the young are independent. In some cases, the family group can be maintained, even when the descendants no longer require parental care.
The binturong is a species with a certain longevity, being able to live about 18 years in the wild, while in captivity it is documented that they can live up to 25 years.
Conservation status of the binturong
The binturong is classified as vulnerable by the IUCN due to its declining population trend and that it is uncommon or rare to observe in its range. natural distribution range. In fact, the binturong in some regions is estimated to be close to local extinction
Threats to the species include its trafficking to be sold as pets, hunting for human consumption, in some countries it is the species that is kept the most in cages for exhibition and the sale of its skin is included. Even though in some of the areas where the species is located there are laws and treaties for its protection, as well as the maintenance of certain protected areas, a more strict application is still requiredof the measures that really guarantee the conservation of the binturong in its natural habitat.
If this is a topic that concerns you as much as we do, see How to protect endangered animals and start taking action.
