English: Palawan Bearcat
Tagalog: Binturong
Scientific: Arctictis Binturong
Population Status/Origin /Distribution Habitat
The Mammalian Fauna of the Philippine Islands is exceptionally diverse with over 165 species and at least 121 of which are endemic with the Philippines. One this species the Palawan Bearcat locally known as Manturon or Binturong. It is found only in Palawan.
The Palawan Bearcat usually stays in denser vegetation both in original and secondary growth forests. it can also be found in lowlands and extends its range in to the hills and lower mountain slopes.
It is arboreal, and uses its prehensile tails for climbing trees especially high canopy staying among dense clusters of the leaves where it difficult to discover. It is a nocturnal species and can only be seen through its eyes luminous eyes that stares for short periods against bright beams and flashlights. The Palawan bearcats is sometimes eaten by the natives. The fur is used in making caps, wraps and coats and is even used as decor. The species has been heavily affected by deforestation, hunting and trapping.
Description
The Palawan Bearcat has an elongated body head broad posterior becoming small and pointed toward the face. The ears are small and rounded and it has small eyes, prehensile long tail and short legs. It is generally colored black in the upper parts washed with reddish brown.