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Binturong (Arctictis binturong) is a mammalian species belonging to the carnivora order and native of Southeast Asia. It is also called bearcat, and weighs between 9 to 20 kg, has a thick fur of strong black hair, a prehensile tail and a diet preferentially based on fruits. European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) coordinates breeding programmes in zoological institutions in Europe including the European Endangered species Programme (EEP), which is the most intensive type of population management for a species. Binturong is endangered so under the umbrella of EEP, we must make recommendations and guidelines about the management of this animal in captivity.

Our goal was to promote the highest possible standards for husbandry in zoos by compiling a Best Practice Guidelines for Binturongs. To create this document four means have been used: bibliographic research, Studbook consultation (document which contain genealogical information), two surveys and compilation of technical feedback from institutions keeping this species. This activity is coordinated by Aude Bourgeois, veterinarian in the zoo “la ménagerie” in the National Museum of Natural History of Paris.

To date only few studies have been published on Binturong. In the wild it has been listed as Vulnerable in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and reproduction in captivity is still a real challenge. In our work, we could compile a Best Practice Guidelines document that covers many aspects of Binturong biology and field data (taxonomy, morphology, physiology, longevity, zoogeography, ecology, diet, reproduction and behaviour) as well as advice for zoo management of this species (housing, capture, transport, feeding, social environment, breeding, veterinarian care, and behaviour management). The objective is to send the document to every zoological institutions holding or which wishes to keep the Binturong in order to permit the best breeding and management plan for this endangered species.