New binturong arrives for vital breeding programme

What looks like a cross between a bear and a cat and smells like buttery popcorn? A binturong of course, and we have welcomed our second of these unusual animals just in time for May half term.

Often called Bearcats, binturong are actually civets and one of only two carnivorous animals with a prehensile tail (the other is the kinkajou) which they use for balance and to hold onto branches for support.

Our newest arrival, a male called Hanoi, arrived from France, and it is hoped he will eventually breed with Bellatrix, our other binturong.

The fairly large animals come from southeast Asia and are classed as ‘vulnerable’ due to their dwindling numbers from poaching, the pet trade and loss of habitat.

These fascinating – and feisty – creatures spend most of their time in trees, but because they are heavy and not very agile, they have to climb down to the ground to get from one tree to another.

And it is true that they have glands in their tails that release a distinctive smell, often compared to buttered popcorn.

Carnivore Team Leader Carrie Arnold said: “This is such an important addition to our Marwell family. Binturongs are a vulnerable species, so this new arrival is a really exciting and important step in our breeding efforts. Our hope is that Hanoi and Bellatrix will form a strong bond and help secure the future of this fascinating species.”

Carrie added they can be quite elusive to visitors. “We recommend that visitors check our Marwell app before they visit to see when the feeding times are as they can be tricky to see. And make sure you look up – they are arboreal and live in the trees!”

In other exciting news, also in time for half term, Marwell’s penguins have moved back to their newly renovated home.

The 13 penguins left their Penguin Cove home, near the entrance to the zoo, three months ago so that it could be renovated. Since then, they have been in a temporary, purpose-built habitat next to the white rhinos, Grevy’s zebra and scimitar-horned oryx.

The renovations at Penguin Cove include trialling an advanced water flow system that creates variable-speed currents. It is hoped this innovative system will provide a more dynamic underwater environment, and maintain good muscle development and overall fitness for the penguins.

To see the penguins back in their home and to visit the new binturong, come along to Marwell at half term between Saturday 24 May and Sunday 1 June 2025. We are celebrating Love Your Zoo Week with lots of exciting adventures, fun activities and plenty of animal magic.

By visiting Marwell, you are contributing to our vital conservation projects here in the UK and across the globe. Book your tickets online in advance to save.