Palawan binturong

Arctictis binturong whitei is a subspecies of the binturong, a mammal in the family Viverridae. It is known commonly as the Palawan binturong and Palawan bearcat.[1] It is endemic to the island of Palawan in the Philippines.

Palawan binturong
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Carnivora
Suborder: Feliformia
Family: Viverridae
Genus: Arctictis
Species:
A. binturong
Subspecies:
A. b. whitei
Trinomial name
Arctictis binturong whitei

Description

The Palawan binturong can grow to as much as 1.4 metres (4.6 ft). Distinguishing characteristics are the ears that are lined with white fur, and long, white whiskers that can be as long as the length of its head. Generally docile when handled, the bearcat nevertheless has sharp claws and teeth that can easily rip through flesh. It can suspend itself by curling its strong prehensile tail around branches. Its vertically oriented pupil indicates that it is a nocturnal animal. It has coarse, thick black-brown fur.

Biology

The Palawan binturong inhabits tropical rainforest habitat. It is an omnivore, feeding on fruit, small animals, and carrion.[2]

Conservation

This subspecies is harvested for the pet trade. In the south of its range it is also taken for human consumption.

References
  1. A. b. whitei. Biolib.cz
  2. Palawan Binturong. Belfast Zoo.
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