the chital (Axis axis). native to india and surrounding countries. as social animals, they perform a distinct ‘courtesy posture’ similar to bowing when other deer pass. their meat is delicious.
the california tiger salamander (Ambystoma californiense). practices a form of estivation or subterranean summertime dormancy. noted for its stubby physique and large size. endangered or threatened throughout much of its range due to the development and destruction of vernal pools required for reproduction. fuckin’ cute.
(Source: microecos)
the spotted linsang (Prionodon pardicolor). at one kilogram in weight, the smallest of the extant civets. lacks the scent-producing perineal gland present in most viverrids. native to the eastern himalayas. fewer than 200 remain in nature. elusive and little-known.
the binturong (Arctictisbinturong). the only Old World mammal with a prehensile tail. native to southeast asia. emits an odor reminiscent of buttered popcorn. sometimes called the bear cat.
the spectacled bear (Tremarctos ornatus). my favorite ursid. the only bear native to south america. the last of the pleistocene short-faced bears. subsists largely on bromeliads. the inspiration for ‘paddington bear’. commonly called ucumari.
welcome to a beast a day.
