The joys of spring: baby binturong cub ventures outside for the first time

Spring has brought a heartwarming new arrival to Crocodiles of the World, in Oxfordshire, where female binturong Willow has given birth to a healthy cub – also affectionately known as a “bintlet” or “binlet” - delighting the animal care team and visitors alike.

After several weeks nesting safely indoors, the curious youngster has now taken his very first steps outside, beginning to explore its surroundings under Willow’s watchful eye.

Willow has been an attentive and devoted mother since the birth. Dad Winnie has been giving the new family space, at Willow’s request, though keepers say he will be a gentle and reliable parent who is expected to begin sharing cub-sitting duties soon.

The milestone moment happened unexpectedly just after filming a thank-you message to supporters who had sent their congratulations following the birth announcement.

Shaun Foggett, Founder of Crocodiles of the World, said: ‘We’d just finished filming to thank everyone for their lovely messages, and I mentioned that the cub hadn’t been outside yet. As soon as the cameras stopped rolling, he wandered out for the very first time and thankfully we managed to capture it on film. It was a magical moment for the whole team. We’re now hoping he’s enjoying the brighter spring weather as he grows more confident outdoors.’

Binturongs, sometimes known as bearcats, are classified as Vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. Across South and Southeast Asia, their populations face significant threats, primarily from habitat loss and illegal hunting.

Visitors may be able to spot the cub during quiet moments outdoors as it continues exploring this spring.

Crocodiles of the World is dedicated to the conservation of crocodilians and a wide range of other threatened species, working to inspire greater understanding and protection of wildlife through education, breeding programmes and visitor experiences.