First Ever Binturong Born in 100 Years
PUBLISHED 25 SEPTEMBER 2025
Something small and furry has arrived at Drusillas Park in Sussex! During the routine morning checks on the 8th August, zookeepers were delighted to discover Drusillas had a brand-new resident - a tiny baby binturong, known as a binlet. This pint-sized pioneer, who keepers have named ‘Boots’, has become the very first binturong ever born at Drusillas across its 100-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.
Resident binturong couple Niffler and Dora are now the proud parents of female cub, Boots. Not only is Boots adorable but she is also a rare and 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.
Meanwhile, Niffler is playing Dad perfectly, by staying out of the way! In the wild, male binturongs don’t take part in raising young, and Niffler’s laid-back personality allows Dora to focus completely on their daughter: “Their personalities complement each other really well,” said Gemma. “Dora is quiet and reserved, while Niffler is confident and relaxed. The fact they’ve already had a baby shows just how well they get on. It’s been lovely to watch their bond grow.”
‘Boots’ was named after Boots the Monkey from children’s cartoon Dora the Explorer, a perfect match for her mum’s name and her sweet personality. Keepers have spotted her beginning to venture out of her nest box, looking, sniffing around, and exploring.
“She hasn’t left the nest much yet, which is totally normal at this age,” said Gemma. “Binlets usually stay hidden for the first three months. But we’re already seeing her curious side emerge. Her eyes are bright and alert, her whiskers are growing in, and she even has that famous popcorn scent that binturongs are known for.”
Despite Binturongs being nicknamed ‘bearcats,’ surprisingly, they’re neither bears nor cats. These mysterious, tree-dwelling mammals belong to the civet family and are one of the rarest species in zoos across the UK. Drusillas is incredibly proud to be among the few zoos in the country caring for binturongs - and even prouder to now be celebrating a baby!
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.”
Visitors can now try to catch a glimpse of little Boots nestled close to mum Dora. Located just off the A27 in Alfriston, Drusillas Park is open daily from 10am. For more information, please telephone 01323 874100 or visit www.drusillas.co.uk