VU Carnivore Rainforests, Madagascar
5–8 kg
Weight
15–20 yrs
Lifespan
45–48 km/h
Top Speed
MadagascarFound In
At just 5–8 kg, the Fossa is one of the lightest carnivore mammals (#30 of 32). Found in Madagascar, it inhabits rainforests, madagascar habitats.
Size, Speed & Lifespan
| Metric | Fossa | Carnivore Mammals Median | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 6.5 kg | 50 kg | ↓ 87% |
| Height | 80 cm | — | — |
| Top Speed | 46.5 km/h | 48 km/h | ↓ 3% |
| Avg Speed | 46.5 km/h | — | — |
| Lifespan | 17.5 yrs | 12.5 yrs | ↑ 40% |
Endemic to Madagascar
Habitat: Rainforests, Madagascar
Found In: Madagascar
Coloration: Brown, Reddish-brown
Behavior
Natural Predators
Social Structure
Recorded as Solitary.
Reproduction & Lifespan
Gestation Period: 90 days
Offspring per Birth: 2-4
Lifespan: 15–20 years
Why It Is Vulnerable
VU Listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List — one of 34 species in this database with the same status.
Weight Rank Among Vulnerable Species
Ranked #24 of 34 by typical adult weight.
| # | Species | Weight | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 22 | King Cobra | Up to 9 kg | VU |
| 23 | Spider Monkey | 6–9 kg | VU |
| 24 | Fossa | 5–8 kg | VU |
| 25 | Shoebill | 4–6 kg | VU |
| 26 | Quokka | 2.5–5 kg | VU |
| 27 | Horseshoe Crab | Up to 2.3 kg | VU |