fossa

The fosa is Madagascar's largest carnivorous mammal, resembling a small cougar with a slender body, muscular limbs, and a long tail. It has semi-retractable claws and flexible ankles, allowing it to climb trees head-first. Fosas are solitary and territorial, using scent marking for communication. They are active both day and night, preying on lemurs, rodents, reptiles, and birds. Mating occurs in trees, with females selecting high branches for copulation that can last several hours. Litters range from one to six pups, which are weaned after 4.5 months and reach sexual maturity at 3–4 years. The fosa is classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN, primarily due to habitat destruction and hunting.