Fossa
Status
Vulnerable
Classification
Mammal
Exhibit
Water is Life
Is it a cat, a dog, or a mongoose?
Until recently, scientists though fossas might be most closely related to cats. But now, genetic work shows they are most closely related to African and Asian mongooses.
Check out that tail!
A fossa's tail is about half of the animal's full length. They grow up to 6 feet long from the tip of their nose to the end of their tail and can weigh anywhere around 15 to 25 pounds.
This species is the largest carnivore and the top predator on the island of Madagascar. They prey on both small and medium sized animals including lemurs, rodents and birds. They use their tails, forelimbs, sharp teeth and claws to catch their prey.