ON THE SCENT
Scientists once thought that the bearcat’s distinct aroma came from glands beneath its tail, but a recent study discovered that the animal’s urine contains 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline—the same chemical compound that gives the popular movie theater snack its mouthwatering smell. As naturally solitary animals, both male and female bearcats spread this strange odor on trees and leaves to mark their territory, attract mates, and tell other bearcats to stay away.
GIRL POWER
Female bearcats are about 20% larger and heavier than males and are the species’ dominant sex. They’re also one of only around 100 mammals that can delay embryo implantation, allowing them to time the birth of their young to a season when environmental conditions are most favorable.
ABOUT
RANGE
From Northeast India and Bangladesh to Malaysia, Borneo, and the Philippines; also found in other Southeast Asian countries, Nepal, Bhutan, and China.
SIZE
Body length: 2–3 ft.; tail length: 19–33 in.
WEIGHT
25–50 lb.
DIET
Mostly fruit, but also plants and leaves, eggs, carrion, fish, small invertebrates, birds, and small mammals.
STATUS
The IUCN Red List classifies the species as vulnerable, with a population decline estimated at more than 30% over the last 18 years.
THREATS
Habitat loss and degradation due to agriculture and logging; exploitation for the pet and illegal wildlife trade; hunting.
