Favorite Images of Fossas

A list of my favorite images of fossas.

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fossa_(animal)

The fossa (Cryptoprocta ferox) is a cat-like, carnivorous mammal endemic to Madagascar.

It is a member of the Eupleridae, a family of carnivorans closely related to the mongoose family (Herpestidae).

The fossa is the largest mammalian carnivore on the island of Madagascar and has been compared to a small cougar.

Adults have a head-body length of 70–80 cm (28–31 in) and weigh between 5.5 and 8.6 kg (12 and 19 lb), with the males larger than the females. It has semiretractable claws and flexible ankles that allow it to climb up and down trees head-first, and also support jumping from tree to tree.

The species is widespread, although population densities are usually low. It is found solely in forested habitat and actively hunts both by day and night.

Over 50% of its diet consists of lemurs, the endemic primates found on the island; tenrecs, rodents, lizards, birds and other animals are also documented as prey.

Life expectancy in captivity is 20 years. The fossa is listed as "Vulnerable" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. It is generally feared by the Malagasy people and is often protected by their fady (taboo). The greatest threat to the species is habitat destruction.