Binturong Fact

Binturong has several names such as Arctictis binturong, Asian Bearcat, the Palawan Bearcat, or just the Bearcat. These species come from Viverridae family which includes Mongooses, Fossa, civets and genets. Binturong is considered as solitary and nocturnal animal. Earlier Binturongs were found easily in thick jungles but unfortunately now it’s rare find.

Binturongs are heavy and large animals with furry skin and color wise they are either black, brown and grey. They have scent glands under their tail that they use to mark trees to notify others animals about their territories. Surprisingly it’s said that it smells like popcorn. Binturong swims, dives, and spends long time in the water.

Distribution: Mostly found in dense forests of East-Asia and South. Mostly in the rainforests places such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, Burma, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Nepal, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Habitat: Lives in dense and moist tropical forest.

Diet: They are slow moving animals. In spite of being from carnivorous group, they are frugivorous, means they survive on fruit diet mostly. Binturongs also consume insects, birds and rodents in almost cat-like manner. With the ability to swim they enjoy hunting in the water and to catch fishes.

Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Bangkok has mind-blowing varieties of Binturongs. It exhibits spectacular experience as you explore your Journey to the Jungle. Visitors get an opportunity to observe Binturongs in their natural behavior. A must visit place to have a memorable time with your family.