Unique creature’s remains will be preserved with special technique after passing away at wildlife park A rare "bearcat" has passed away at a UK zoo and will be preserved through a special technique.

This is the story of a special bearcat who captured the hearts of many at a UK zoo. Penh, a rare Cambodian binturong, sadly passed away at 18 years old on July 31st. He was one of only three of his kind living in European zoos and had spent 14 years in England. His death was a heartbreaking loss for the zookeepers who described him as a "cherished member" of their animal family.

Binturongs, also known as bearcats, are facing threats to their survival in their native countries in southeast Asia due to deforestation. This is why some are taken in by wildlife preserves, like the one where Penh lived. But even in his passing, Penh's legacy will live on. The zoo has decided to cryogenically preserve him to help protect the future population of binturongs.

The animal charity Nature's SAFE will be preserving Penh's genetic footprint, including his sperm and skin cells. This will help to bolster the binturong population and ensure that future generations will continue to witness the wonderful diversity of the natural world. Despite the sadness of Penh's passing, there is a sense of hope and positivity knowing that his legacy will live on.

Penh's headkeeper at the zoo, Gemma, spoke about the bittersweet feeling of losing an animal she had worked with for over a decade. However, she also expressed the positive feeling of knowing that this was not necessarily the end for Penh. His sperm was confirmed to be viable, meaning that he could still contribute to the conservation of binturongs even after his death.

Binturongs, or bearcats, get their nickname purely based on their appearance and walking style. They are not actually closely related to either bears or cats. These unique creatures are typically around two to three feet in length, with a tail that is almost the same length as their body. They weigh anywhere from 11 to 36kg, with females being larger than males. Unfortunately, binturongs are considered a vulnerable species, just one level below endangered.

In collaboration with the zoo, Nature's SAFE will be freezing Penh's genetic tissue to help protect the future of binturongs. This is a crucial step in ensuring the survival of these special animals. As the world's most endangered sea mammal's time is running out, it is more important than ever to preserve the diversity of our natural world. Penh may no longer be with us, but his legacy will continue to make a positive impact on the world.

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