Welcome Binturongs!
Tallahassee Museum Welcomes Binturongs: Rare “Bearcat” Mammals That Smell Like Buttered Popcorn
The Tallahassee Museum welcomes you to experience one of its most unusual wildlife additions to date. Binturongs, a rare Southeast Asian mammals known for their distinctive scent of buttered popcorn, are ready to meet you!
These captivating tree-dwelling animals, often called “bearcats” for their bear-like face and cat-like body, represent a first for the region and mark a significant addition to the Museum’s mission of connecting Big Bend families with diverse wildlife from around the world.
The binturongs’ most remarkable characteristic is immediately noticeable: they naturally smell like freshly buttered popcorn, a scent produced by a gland beneath their tail. This unusual trait, combined with their prehensile tails — one of only two carnivores with this adaptation — makes them one of the animal kingdom’s most intriguing species.
“Having the opportunity to bring animals like binturongs to our community is invaluable,” said Suzie Buzzo, Animals Department Director at the Tallahassee Museum. “These up-close experiences allow our visitors of all ages to develop meaningful connections with wildlife they might never encounter otherwise. When people can see, learn about, and appreciate animals from around the world, it deepens their understanding of conservation and our shared responsibility to protect all species and habitats. This aligns perfectly with our mission to inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural world through authentic encounters with wildlife.”
Learning and Discovery for All Ages
Native to the rainforests of Southeast Asia, binturongs (Arctictis binturong) are tree-dwelling mammals that use their prehensile tails to navigate through forest canopies. These primarily nocturnal animals are fascinating examples of how different species adapt to their environments, playing an important role in their ecosystems as seed dispersers.
The Tallahassee Museum’s new residents will provide visitors with hands-on learning opportunities about rainforest habitats, animal behavior, and the interconnectedness of ecosystems around the world. The binturongs join the Museum’s collection of native wildlife, enhancing the institution’s ability to tell the story of Big Bend Florida’s natural and cultural history while connecting visitors to the broader natural world.
The binturong habitat features lush plantings generously donated by Tallahassee Nurseries, creating an authentic environment that allows visitors to experience these remarkable animals in a naturalistic setting.
