Popcorn-Scented Binturongs Arrive at Sussex Adventure Park

Hailsham, United Kingdom – Two binturongs, a vulnerable species often called bearcats and known for smelling like buttered popcorn, have arrived at Knockhatch Adventure Park in East Sussex.

The park said the pair, a female named Whiskey and a male named Drew, are staying temporarily while improvements are carried out at Bede's School Zoo, where they usually live. Binturongs are native to the rainforests of South and Southeast Asia, belong to the civet family, and are listed as vulnerable because of habitat loss and the illegal wildlife trade.

"Most people can't believe there's an animal that naturally smells like buttered popcorn, but binturongs are also an important species facing real challenges in the wild," said Colin Jaggers, Knockhatch's managing director. "We're delighted to be caring for Whiskey and Drew at Knockhatch and helping more people discover why they deserve protection."

The park, in Hailsham, said visitors can now see the animals and learn about rainforest conservation. Binturongs are skilled climbers and are among the few mammals with a prehensile tail.