Drusillas Park in Alfriston is celebrating a landmark birth – the arrival of the very first binturong cub in the zoo’s 100-year history.
The tiny female, known as a “binlet” and named Boots by keepers, was discovered on 8 August during morning checks.
She is the offspring of resident pair Niffler and Dora, and her safe arrival marks a major success for the European breeding programme for this vulnerable species.
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Binturongs – sometimes called “bearcats” – are native to the rainforests of Southeast Asia but are under severe threat from habitat loss, the illegal wildlife trade and their exploitation in the civet coffee industry.
“This is a huge milestone for us,” said Drusillas head keeper Gemma Romanis.
“Boots is already capturing hearts with her sleepy squeaks and sweet personality, but she also represents a very significant moment for conservation.”
The birth took staff by surprise, after Dora suddenly became unusually quiet and retreated into her nest box. The next day, keepers found her calmly nursing the newborn.
“Dora is a fantastic mum – calm, gentle and very attentive,” Romanis said.
“She’s raised cubs before at her previous zoo and her experience really shows.”
For now, Boots will remain in the nest with her mother and is expected to start weaning at around eight weeks old. Keepers say her father, Niffler, is playing the part of hands-off dad perfectly, reflecting the behaviour of binturongs in the wild.
The youngster’s name was inspired by Dora the Explorer’s sidekick, Boots the monkey – a fitting tribute to her mother’s name and her emerging playful nature.
Despite their nickname, binturongs are neither bears nor cats but belong to the civet family. They are rarely seen in UK zoos, making Boots’ arrival even more significant.
Drusillas has also been supporting conservation efforts abroad, partnering with The Civet Project to help end the exploitation of civets and binturongs in Vietnam’s kopi luwak coffee trade.
“Boots’ birth is a beautiful reminder of what’s at stake,” Romanis added.
“These are extraordinary animals: intelligent, sensitive and vital to their ecosystems. To see one born here at Drusillas is really special.”
Visitors may be able to spot the new arrival snuggled up to Dora in her enclosure.
Drusillas Park, just off the A27 near Alfriston, is open daily from 10am.
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