Kinkajou
Scientific name: Potos flavus
Habitat: tropical forests
Diet: primarily fruit, some flowers, leaves, insects
Life span: up to 23 years in captivity
Young: 1 young
Size: 1.5-4.5 kg (3¼-10 lbs)
This nocturnal, tree-dwelling relative of the racoon and coatimundi is known for hanging upside down while feeding, using the tail and hind legs for support. When climbing, kinkajous are aided by their long prehensile tail, fully reversible hind feet and extreme spinal flexibility.
They are usually found alone but will loosely associate in groups consisting of a dominant male, a subordinate male, a female and her offspring.
While collecting nectar with their long tongues, kinkajous bury their faces into the flower and pollen sticks to their fur, which then pollinates other flowers.
Learn more about this species:
These are some other websites that we think have more great information about this species.
Kinkajou on Animal Diversity Web
For More Information
Edmonton Valley Zoo
13315 Buena Vista Road (87th Avenue)
PO Box 2359
Edmonton, Alberta T5J 2R7
| attractions@edmonton.ca |
Range
Range: Central and South America
Status in the Wild
Status: thriving
