Bear cuscus

Bärenkuskus ( Ailurops ursinus )

The Bärenkuskus ( Ailurops ) is a marsupial genus of the family of climbing Beutler ( Phalangeridae ). They are among the most primitive members of this family and have evolved to their homeland, the island of Sulawesi and islands separated from the other climbing marsupials.

Dissemination

Bärenkuskus are found only on the Indonesian island of Sulawesi ( Celebes ) and in the upstream Talaud Islands.

Description

Bärenkuskus reach a body length of about 56 to 61 cm, her tail is just as long. The gray, brown or black fur is thick and furry. For the " bear " -like appearance make the forward-facing eyes next to the thick fur, short snout and small, round ears.

Way of life

Bärenkuskus are arboreal marsupials that are found in tropical rain forests up to 400 m above sea level. The prehensile tail and the two thumbs, which can be compared with the other fingers, serve this lifestyle. Typical of them is the slow, elegant locomotion. The low nutritional value of their staple food, leaves, causes the Bärenkuskus have ( similar to other leaf-eating animals such as sloths and koalas ) developed a very energy-saving lifestyle. The bulk of the day is spent sleeping or resting, foraging and grooming occupy the rest. Bärenkuskus have no pronounced day - night rhythm of rest and activity phases are not dependent on the time of day from. Bärenkuskus are in contrast to the other climbing marsupials not loners, but live together in pairs or in groups of three to four animals.

Food

Leaves make up the majority of the food; to a lesser extent they also eat unripe fruits and buds.

Reproduction

Females give birth to one to two times a year a young is born. The cub is about eight months in the mother's pouch and also afterwards for some time with her. More detailed explanation of the reproduction is not known.

Threat

Bärenkuskus are protected in Indonesia. Nevertheless, their meat is sought; also make them likely clearing to create. Exact data on the level of risk do not exist.

The types

• The Actual Bärenkuskus ( Ailurops ursinus ) is native to the island of Sulawesi.
• Ailurops melanotis was recognized in 2003 as a separate species. It is smaller than the real thing Bärenkuskus and lives on the Talaud Islands.