A zoo in Fife has welcomed a new “rare and elusive” animal native to Madagascar.
Fife Zoo welcomed the arrival of a new male fossa, named Isalo, earlier this month.
Fossas are carnivores native to Madagascar, often mistaken for a type of big cat or mongoose.
Isalo came from Chester Zoo and is part of a carefully managed European endangered species conservation programme (EEP), which aims to preserve healthy and genetically diverse populations of at-risk animals.
Fife ZooThe unique species is rarely seen in zoos, with Fife Zoo saying this is an “extraordinary opportunity” for visitors to learn more about one of the world’s lesser-known carnivores.
Visitors will be able to see the Isalo in his habitat from June 28 after a brief acclimatisation period to help him adjust to his new surroundings.
Zoo director, Michael Knight, said the team was “delighted” to welcome the new addition, saying: “Fossas are Madagascar’s top predators, but they’re also under threat due to habitat loss, fragmentation and persecution by people.
“By caring for them here, we can raise awareness of their threats and support global conservation efforts.”
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