Binturong

Arctictis binturong

Conservation Status

Near Threatened

Mammalia · Carnivora · Viverridae

About

The binturong, also known as the bearcat, is a viverrid native to South and Southeast Asia. It is uncommon in much of its range, and has been assessed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List because of a declining population. It is estimated to have declined at least 30% since the mid-1980s. The binturong is the only species in the genus Arctictis.

Fun Fact

Binturongs smell distinctly like buttered popcorn due to a chemical compound (2-acetyl-1-pyrroline) in their urine — the same molecule responsible for the scent of freshly popped corn.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Tropical rainforests

Diet

Omnivore

Lifespan

18-25 years

Threats

Poaching
Illegal Wildlife Trade
Wildfire

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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