Wild Fact #921 – Madagascar Acrobat – Fossa
Today we are going to play a game called “What Do I Look Like?”. So, take a look at the picture above and try to guess the relatives of the Fossa. Go ahead, what do you think? Is it related to a weasel? Dog? Cat? You give up yet? Although, the Fossa may look like a cross between the above mentioned animals, it is actually related to the mongoose. If you can remember all the way back to November 23, 2009 you will know that we have previously discussed another member of the mongoose family. Of course, this was the fascinating Meerkat. Can you believe that the animal pictured above is related to the meerkat?
The fossa is the largest carnivore native to Madagascar. Their specialty happens to be feasting on lemurs. If you have seen the cartoon, Madagascar, then you may remember the lemurs trembling in fear just by mentioning the word “Fossa”. So, what makes the fossa such a deadly predator? Well, it doesn’t just look like a cat but it has some of the same adaptations as the successful felines. For example, they have retractable claws which assist in climbing. These claws actually allow the fossa to climb down a tree head first. I believe I have tried that at some point in my life but it didn’t turn out too well. As well, they have a very long tail which provides additional balance while hunting in the trees. Oddly enough they use this tail the same way a tight rope walker uses that long pole. Maybe the circus should hire a few of these Madagascar predators. Unfortunately, the lemurs don’t catch a break on the ground either. The fossa is incredbily fast and extremely agile compared to the lemurs. This basically spells out trouble for the little lemurs which is why they make up more than 50% of the fossa diet.
So now we can add one more animal to the list of reasons why I want to visit Madagascar! I am telling you that island is rapidly working its way up my list of places to visit before I die. I think it is only behind Africa and the Galapagos Islands. Has anyone been lucky enough to visit Madagascar?
Well, I guess that just about does it for me. Have a great day!
