Fossas in the Erfurt Zoo: Rare predators from Madagascar delight visitors!

Fossas in the Erfurt Zoo: Rare predators from Madagascar delight visitors!

Two very special animal newcomers have arrived at the Thuringian Zoopark Erfurt: the duo Bodo and Ravo, two rare fossas, have recently been seen at the zoo. These fascinating predators are not only Madagascar's largest native predators, but are also among the most endangered species in the world. That reports n-tv.

The two male siblings were born in a Dutch zoo in May 2024 and are now attracting the attention of animal lovers. Fossas, also known as ferret cats, hunt primarily lemurs, but also smaller mammals, birds and reptiles. Threats such as habitat destruction and direct hunting have caused the population of these majestic animals to plummet.

A new home for the Fossas

The Erfurt Zoopark is the only zoo in central Germany that keeps fossas and is only one of eight facilities in Germany that house these impressive predators. In the long term, Bodo and Ravo are expected to contribute to breeding, but they will have to wait another year or two until they are sexually mature.

The zoo also has big plans when it comes to species protection and endangered species: the monkey complex will be modernized from September 2025. A new Madagascar pavilion is being built to highlight the island's diverse wildlife. In addition, attention is drawn to the dangers of habitat destruction and species protection, as Thüringen24 reports.

The planned Madagascar Pavilion project

In the new pavilion, not only the fossas, but also other animal inhabitants from Madagascar will be presented. Among the highlights expected are ring-tailed lemurs, black lemurs and future newcomers such as crowned lemurs. Visitors can look forward to new cages, commented feedings and animal encounters in the listed area.

Modern enclosure signage as well as hands-on stations and play equipment also contribute to the appeal of the Madagascar Pavilion. Animal husbandry will also continue to improve with a new net over the langur facility. The zoo park aims to raise awareness of endangered species and stimulate the interest of visitors young and old.

Background to the fascinating species

The fossa (Cryptoprocta ferox) is an idiosyncratic animal that is not only fascinating because of its appearance. With a head and torso length of 70 to 80 cm and a weight of 5.5 to 8.6 kg, the males are usually slightly larger than the females. Their ability to climb trees upside down is due to their flexible ankles and semi-retractable claws, making them excellent hunters in the forests of Madagascar, where they catch over 50% of their food in the form of lemurs.

But the Fossas are not only acrobatic hunters, they also play a crucial role in Madagascar's ecosystem. Their reproduction often occurs in trees and can take several hours, with litters of one to six pups being born. An exciting detail is that the young fossas become independent after about a year. Unfortunately, these animals are classified as endangered on the IUCN Red List, making conservation measures essential.

In Erfurt, zoo visitors can expect an exciting experience with these unique animals. It remains to be seen what further plans and projects the zoo will implement in the future to preserve and protect the animal species that so enrich our earth. Discover the world of fossas and support the Erfurt Zoopark in its efforts to protect species.