Dartmoor Zoo on alert as Binturong escapes enclosure

A Binturong residing at Dartmoor Zoo has managed to leave his enclosure, prompting the zoo to issue a public advisory while assuring the community that he poses no threat to the general public.

Known as Malu, his journey to Dartmoor Zoo involved a legal import from Asia, yet the circumstances suggest he may have been taken from the wild. Originating from 'Get to know animals', a mini zoo in Epping, Essex, Malu received exceptional care before he found a new home at Dartmoor Zoo on July 5th, after his stay with the mini zoo. 

The zoo's spokesperson stated, "At this stage, we still believe he is within our zoo, and the team is working diligently to locate him." Given Malu's nocturnal nature, the zoo has urged caution if spotted and has advised the public not to approach him, but to make immediate contact with the zoo at 01752 837645.

Binturongs, also known as Bearcats or Malay Civet Cats, belong to the Viverridae family and share close relations with Civets, Genets, and Fossa. Native to various regions in Asia, including India, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines, these unique creatures face threats such as the illegal pet trade, deforestation, and capture for various purposes, including the production of civet coffee.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified Binturongs as Vulnerable due to these threats, with Laos presenting a concerning situation where they are captured and considered a delicacy.

Palawan, specifically, faces a significant issue of illegal wildlife trade, where many animals, including Binturongs, are taken from the wild and sold. Unfortunately, lax punishments fail to deter offenders from repeating such offenses.

As the zoo intensifies efforts to locate Malu, the public is urged to stay vigilant and report any potential sightings to the provided contact number.