Endangered mammal spotted

Source: Rare mammal found Bhutan Observer

5 April 2010

A rare and endangered mammal has been found at Jigme Dorji Wangchuck  National Park.

Spotted in Domipangchung in Gasa, the spotted linsang (Prionodon pardicolor) takes the number of mammals within the park to 37. The spotted linsang is a medium-size nocturnal mammal. Solitary, mysterious, and living in trees, it is rarely seen during daytime. It is of ochrebrown to deep buff colour depending on seasons. It measures between 37 cm and 43 cm and weighs between 0.6 and 1.2 kg.

Spotted linsangs are carnivores, and they prey on small animals, usually rodents and birds. Their hunting skills are enabled by their ability to jump and climb with grace and power.

This mammal is found in Nepal, Sikkim, India (Assam), upper Burma and southern China. It is on the list of endangered species in some parts of these countries.

Phuntsho Thinley, the park manager of the national park, said the number of cryptic and small mammals might increase drastically at the end of their detailed survey on them, which starts July, 2010. This new and rare mammal was spotted by Leki Wangdi, a park guard, on January 3, 2010.

By Eshori Gurung