Special birth in ZooParc: fossas born for the first time in the Netherlands

A special birth has taken place in ZooParc. For the first time fossas have been born in a Dutch zoo. The two hatchlings came into the world at the zoo in Overloon in late May and are the only fossas born in a zoo to date in 2021.

The fossas, one male and one female, were born behind the scenes. "They stayed in their nest for the past period, where we didn't want to disturb them. By now they are big enough to explore the outdoor enclosure. They do that together with mother Mandaka. She takes very good care of her offspring, which is wonderful to see," says head of animal care Steven van den Heuvel.

Mother Mandaka has been staying at ZooParc Overloon for some time. Van den Heuvel: "The father is named Manakara and has only been a ZooParc resident since November 2020. During the mating season we brought them together and with success, as it turns out."

Forest logging and poachingThe population of the fossa, which occurs in the wild in Madagascar, is declining. This species is labeled "vulnerable" on the IUCN Red List. This is because its habitat is becoming smaller and smaller due to forest clearing. In addition, poaching is also a factor: the meat of the fossa is considered a delicacy locally. Farmers also hunt them to protect their poultry.

Because the fossa population is declining, a management program, also known as a breeding program, has been established for this predator. The goal of this program is to ensure healthy populations in zoos of wildlife species at risk. "The birth of these two little ones is therefore very important, also because fossas are not often born in zoos," Van den Heuvel indicated.

Fossa FundZooParc supports Stichting Wildlife, which is dedicated to various conservation projects, such as the Fossa Fund. Founded by Zoo Duisburg, this fund provides funding for Chances for Nature in western Madagascar. They conduct research on fossas on the island.

This includes looking at the number of fossas living in the wild and conflicts between animals and humans. Chances for Nature also works with local people to build a more sustainable livelihood. Education is provided on how to better interact with nature and live in a more sustainable way to reduce conflicts between people and fossas.

Largest predatorThe fossa is the largest predator native to Madagascar. There it lives in the forests, where it hunts birds and lemurs such as the ring-tailed lemur. Fossas are excellent climbers and can also easily jump from branch to branch. These animals are mainly active at night. The fossa sleeps in a hollow tree or in a hole in the ground.

This species somewhat resembles a feline, which is why it is also called a fossa cat. Thus, the fossa has a long, slender body, with round ears and large eyes. These animals can also retract their nails. The fossa can be recognized by its short brown fur with a long tail.