Arctictis binturong penicillatus

(Temminck, 1835)

Vernacular names

English : Javan binturong
French : Binturong de Java

Classification

Class : Mammalia
Order : Carnivora
Family : Viverridae
Notes : 7 other subspecies known.

Identification

Adults can reach a body length of 96 cm, tail length of 84 cm and weight of 20 kg. Unmistakable species with its long bushy black fur, bushy tail, short limbs and clearer head. This subspecies has light silvery grey head hairs.

Range and habitat

This subspecies occurs on Java and possibly south Borneo. Species found from India to south China, south to Sumatra, Java, Borneo and Palawan. Lives in primary and secondary forests, up to 2500 meters.

Conservation

IUCN RED LIST : VULNERABLE
CITES : Appendix III
Status : The species is threatened by habitat loss throughout its range. Hunting, poaching and capturing for pet trade are also problems locally. This subspecies is one of the most threatened by poaching and traffic. The species is targeted by a breeding program in Europe, Asia and America but the most endangered subspecies are the rarest under human care.