Skip to main content
Close

Fossa

Cryptoprocta ferox

Photo by JosephBullock
Published on Project Noah
Zoom
NominateNominate for Wildlife Photograph of the Month
reportFlag Spotting

-18.9188, 48.3344

Field Notes

Description:

This is the largest mammalian carnivore on the Island. Related to the mongoose it can climb trees. It weighs between 22-26 pounds. They have retractable claws and a long tail.It has been compared to a small cougar. It can climb up and down trees head first.

Habitat:

All around the coastal areas of the Island. Forested habitat.

Notes:

This one is in captivity near the Vokona Forest Lodge. They are still found in the wild.

Species ID Suggestions

Comments (4)

Some Wild-life photographers that visit the Island regularly are able to photograph them in the wild. The Fossa eat lemurs and other small creatures. Yes, it looks like it knows its way around the forests and knows where the food is located. It comes fully equipped as a predator.
Down head first? "killer cougar-squirrel" I learn something new everyday here. Thanks for this one.

Tags

Photographed
PublishedJuly 10, 2011

Accelerate our Mission to Photograph 
Every Species in the World!

Image
Butterflies icon

Wildlife Community

Wildlife Community

Join a worldwide community passionate about wildlife and nature!

Join Project Noah

Nature School

Nature School

Transform your green space into a curiosity-creating nature classroom!

Visit Nature School

Wildlife Game

Wildlife Game

Defend wildlife throughout the jungle in thrilling nature game!

Play Baboon