The Fossa: Madagascar’s Only Predator
While they may be among the lesser-known species in Madagascar, Fossas are the only predators on the island and are just as exciting as lemurs, chameleons, and leaf-tailed geckos.
Fossa (Cryptoprocta ferox), sometimes known as the Fossa Cat, is an entirely endemic predator species in Madagascar. Fossas inhabit very extensive territories and are extremely shy.
They are actually adapted to all biotopes, but due to massive deforestation, their habitat is now very fragmented and restricted. They can be found in tropical rainforests as well as dry forests and. Savannahs and open areas are preferred by the Fossa.
Description and Habits
The ancestors of the Fossa and all other Malagasy carnivores were likely related to mongooses, which arrived in Madagascar about 20 million years ago.
In appearance, the Fossa looks more like a small puma with an incredible 3-foot long tail, but they also bear some resemblance to mongooses.
It is easy to understand why taxonomists were long confused about which predator family the Fossa belongs to, for a long time it was believed to belong to the Mongoose family. Zibetkatzen, but recent research suggests that they belong to the unique family of carnivores called Eupleridae, which is completely unique to Madagascar.
The Fossa actually occupies the only niche of predators in Madagascar, Fossas have specialized in hunting lemurs and are well adapted to it, they can also successfully chase them in the trees.
They also eat Tenreks, Reptiles, Birds and even Fish. With their long tails for balance, they are excellent climbers and are widespread in the wooded habitats of Madagascar, both in the rainforest and in the dry. Forests.
They are active both at night and during the day, often found on the ground but also very agile climbers, effortlessly jumping from tree to tree.
They do not stray from their usual habitat and are solitary except during mating season.
Unfortunately, their population is rapidly declining due to ongoing habitat destruction for slash-and-burn agriculture and persecution in some areas. Despite their wide distribution, sightings of Fossa in most national parks and reserves are actually very rare for visitors due to their extremely shy nature and predominantly nocturnal activities.
However, there are
Discover the Best Place to See and Photograph Fossa in Madagascar
If you want to see and photograph a Fossa in Madagascar, the best place by far is the wildlife-rich, dry 
forest in the Kirindy Reserve, located about two and a half hours by car from the city of Morondava on the west coast.
Kirindy has been the base for many scientific and zoological studies in the past, including a long-term project to study the ecology of the Fossa. As a result, up to eight Fossas have become accustomed to the presence of humans in the area, making it a unique place to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. Kirindy Private Reserve is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to see the charismatic Fossa. The best time for Fossa sightings is between August and December, the driest months of the year, when several Fossa roam the grounds of Kirindy Lodge in search of water and food. They can be seen year-round, with another good time to visit being between mid-October and mid-November, when they are usually mating.
For a close-up view of the Fossa, check out this image: 
species of lemurs, including the Madame Berthe’s Mouse Lemur, the smallest primate in the world weighing only 30g. Over the past 20 years, we have helped numerous customers enjoy the wonderful Fossa sightings in Kirindy. To delight in the sight of this unique and fascinating animal in its natural habitat, let us know.
