Binturong New addition to the Valley A male binturong is new to the Zoo. Visitors can view the binturong each day in the Zoo's valley exhibit. The male binturong joins a 9 1/2-year-old female binturong already on exhibit. Zoo staff hope to begin a breeding program with the pair.
Binturong Arctictis binturong Identifying Features Measures 2 to 3 feet in length. Bushy, prehensile tail is slightly shorter. Adults weighs about 20 pounds. Coarse coat is black highlighted with white or yellow at the tips. Range and Habitat Inhabits dense tropical forest in southeast Asia. Diet Mainly a fruit-eater. Also eats some birds, small mammals and leaves. The binturong has also been observed to catch fish while swimming in rivers. Reproduction Breeding season takes place twice a year, in spring and fall. Gestaton is 3 months. Female gives birth in a den or hollow tree to 2 cubs. Both the male and female participate in raising and caring for young.	Did you know? »» The binturong is sometimes referred to as the bear cat because of its bear-like gait while moving on the ground. »» A skillful climber, the binturong uses its prehensile tail to anchor itself on a branch while tearing at fruit with its forelimbs. »» The binturong is nocturnal. Along with its excellent night vision, its long, white whiskers help it to feel around while searching for prey in the dark. »» In the wild, the social structure of binturong consists of a male, female and 1 to 2 young. »» In the wild, a binturong may live to 18 years.