Where does the kinkajou live?
The kinkajou lives in the tropical rainforests of Mexico, Central and South America, including the Guianas, the Amazon and the Andes. It is arboreal, but it is not closely related to any other tree-dwelling mammal group. It is the only member of its genus, and is also known as the "honey bear", a name shared with several unrelated species. It is a relative of raccoons, coatis and olingos.
What does the kinkajou eat?
This mostly frugivorous mammal is seldom seen by people because of its strict nocturnal habits. It resembles a primate in its physiology, and has a whistling language. Its behaviour includes polyandry, linked to a patrilineal inheritance of territories.
Is the kinkajou endangered?
No: the IUCN lists it as Least Concern. It is, however, hunted for the pet trade, for its skin, used to make wallets and horse saddles, and for its meat. Honduras has included it in Appendix III of CITES: exports from Honduras require an export permit, and exports from other countries a certificate of origin.
