Who Are They To Try And Put Us Down

When: July 25, 2021

Where: Zooparc Overloon, The Netherlands

Show a photo of a Fossa to people, and about 75% won't be able to tell you what animal they're looking at.

I wish more people cared, or simply cared about their unique place in the animal kingdom... I mean, everyone loves looking at a baby animal, but do you know just how special and peculiar these creatures are?

Species: Fossa (Fretkat)

Latin name: Cryptoprocta Ferox

Originates from Madagascar.

Current status: Vulnerable

Did you know:

…It is a cat-like, carnivorous Malagasy mammal, and as a member of the Eupleridae, is closely related to the Mongoose family.

…The Fossa’s classification has been controversial; while its physical traits resemble a Cat’s, other traits suggest a close relationship to Civets.

…It is the largest mammalian carnivore on Madagascar, having been likened to a small Cougar.

…Some of their characteristics are semi-retractable claws – meaning they can extend, but not retract their claws – and have, for their family, uniquely shaped genitalia, their anus being hidden by an anal pouch.

…They are generally feared by Malagasy people and protected by their fady.

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