mysterious carnivore discovered in Borneo's forests

06 Dec 2005
Gland, Switzerland – WWF researchers may have discovered a new, mysterious carnivore species in the dense, central forests of Borneo.

The animal, a mammal slightly larger than a domestic cat with dark red fur and a long, bushy tail, was photographed twice by a camera trap at night. This could be the first time in more than a century that a new carnivore has been discovered on the island.

However, WWF researchers have not yet established whether this is an entirely new species or if it is a new species of marten or civet cat, which looks like a cross between a cat and a fox.

They are hoping to be able to confirm more about the discovery by setting cage traps and catching a live specimen.

WWF stresses that the strange animal, which also has very small ears and large hind legs, might remain a mystery for ever, if its habitat is not adequately protected.

It is extremely rare nowadays to discover a new mammal species of this size, particularly a carnivore, WWF says. The potential new species of carnivore in Borneo would be the first since the discovery of the Borneo ferret-badger in 1895.

from http://panda.org/news_facts/newsroom/index.cfm?uNewsID=52960

Argh!! New discovery!! It will be really cool if it resembles a cat~ But sadly the Indonesian government is planning to clear the forest for oil palm plantation. There are so many things money can't buy (not even Mastercard can), why can't they understand?