First ever binturong born at Drusillas Park

During the routine morning checks on the 8th August, zookeepers were delighted to discover Drusillas had a brand-new resident - a tiny baby binturong. This pint-sized pioneer, who keepers have named ‘Boots’, has become the very first binturong ever born at Drusillas across its one hundred years. Her safe arrival marks a monumental milestone for Drusillas and wider zoo community.

Binturongs, often nicknamed ‘bearcats’, are native to the rainforests of Southeast Asia. They are listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List, with wild populations in steep decline due to deforestation, the illegal wildlife trade, and exploitation in the civet coffee industry.

Boots marks a significant success for the EAZA European breeding programme for binturongs. Her birth is a testament to the dedication of the keepers at Drusillas, who have worked tirelessly to support the couple since Dora arrived from Frankfurt in April.

“This is a huge milestone for us,” said Gemma Romanis, Head Zookeeper at Drusillas. “Boots is already capturing hearts on the keeping team, with her sleepy squeaks and sweet personality, but this is also a very significant moment for us. There were definitely some happy tears shed when we discovered Dora had given birth, we were so proud! ”

Boots’ birth came as a surprise to the team who reported that Dora had suddenly become very quiet and was spending more time in her nest box. The next day, keepers discovered the tiny cub snuggled beside her: “It was such a special moment,” Gemma added. “Dora is a fantastic mum, she’s calm, gentle, and incredibly attentive. She’s raised cubs before at her previous zoo, and her experience really shows.”

Dora is currently nursing Boots, and she will continue to do so for around eight weeks. After that, the cub will begin weaning onto soft, steamed vegetables, which are easier for younger animals to eat.

In 2023, Drusillas Conservation in Action (the Park’s charity arm), partnered with The Civet Project to support the groundbreaking Civet One Health Project in Vietnam. This global initiative is fighting to end the cruel exploitation of civets and binturongs in the exotic kopi luwak coffee trade. By focusing on education, community outreach, and driving policy change, together, the partnership is making vital strides to protect both animals and people from this harmful industry.

“Boots’ birth is a beautiful reminder of what’s at stake,” Gemma continued. “These are extraordinary animals: intelligent, sensitive, and vital to their ecosystems. To see one born here at Drusillas is really special.”