Binturong ‘Bearcat’ Attacks and Bites Keepers at the National Zoo, Sending 2 to the Hospital

National Zoo Binturong Attacks and Bites Keepers, Sending 2 to the Hospital

A binturong at the National Zoo has attacked and bitten two employees, resulting in both individuals being rushed to the hospital. The mammal in question, Lola, a binturong also known as a bearcat native to Southeast Asia, was in the midst of a routine weight check and training session when the incident occurred on December 12. The altercation took place in an area not accessible to the public within the Washington D.C. zoo.

During the weight check, which occurred around 10 a.m. local time, Lola bit one of the employees and refused to release its grip, prompting concern and action from the zoo staff. The National Zoo released a statement regarding the safety incident, indicating that the staff member who was bitten suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Another animal care specialist intervened and managed to separate Lola from the employee and move the binturong to a different enclosure.

Subsequently, the second animal care staff member was also bitten by the bearcat while relocating it to the separate enclosure. As a precautionary measure, both employees were taken to the hospital for medical treatment. The National Zoo emphasised that the decision to transfer the staff to the hospital was made out of an abundance of caution.

Describing Lola’s temperament, the National Zoo’s webpage dedicated to binturongs portrays her as “a bit standoffish,” with defined boundaries that should be respected. Despite this incident, binturongs are typically characterised as animals with tufty whiskers, shaggy dark fur, and muscular bodies, resembling raccoons without masks. It is noteworthy that although they are commonly referred to as bearcats, binturongs are not related to bears or cats but belong to the Viverridae family, alongside civets and fossas.

In terms of characteristics, binturongs generally measure between 2-3 feet in length, with tails of similar length, and weigh between 24-79 pounds, with females typically being larger. While they have a lifespan of 16-18 years in the wild and up to 25 years in captivity, binturongs are omnivores with sharp teeth and claws suitable for consuming meat, fruits, and berries. Their diet often includes small animals such as birds, rodents, fish, and insects, as well as scavenged carcasses.

In addition to Lola, the National Zoo is home to another binturong named Hank, an 11-year-old individual who exhibits curiosity towards new scents and sights. Interestingly, despite cohabiting for years, Lola and Hank have never produced offspring. The zoo continues to monitor and care for these unique creatures, ensuring the safety of both the animals and the staff members involved in their maintenance and training.

This incident serves as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with working closely with wild animals, even in controlled environments such as zoos. The National Zoo’s swift response to the situation highlights their commitment to prioritising the wellbeing of both their staff and the animals under their care. Vigilance and adherence to safety protocols remain crucial in mitigating unforeseen incidents in such settings.