fossa
4
9.9
- noun
- /ˈfɑːsə/
:
fosa
- In Madagascar, the fossa preys on lemurs and other small animals, showcasing its prowess as a carnivorous mammal.
Examples
-
We found no evidence that the fossa fed on mongooses, but it would not seem unlikely, as the fossa is known to feed on birds and small mammals.
Academic text (1990) -
We found no evidence that the fossa fed on mongooses, but it would not seem unlikely, as the fossa is known to feed on birds and small mammals.
Academic text (1990) -
We know of only one large predator in the area, the catlike fossa—a member of the civet family—which raided our trapline on several occasions.
Academic text (1990) -
The fossa is known for its agility and strength, making it a skilled hunter in Madagascar's forests.
-
Conservationists are working to protect the fossa, as it plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of its ecosystem.
Synonyms
A large meat-eating mammal from Madagascar that looks like a cat and hunts other animals
A large meat-eating animal from Madagascar that climbs trees to catch lemurs
Compounds
- Specialized
A small dip in the upper middle of the belly just below the breastbone
- Specialized
A group of meat-eating mammals with only one species, the fossa, from Madagascar
Surface Forms
Etymology
The word fossa for the animal comes from the Malagasy word fosa, the local name used on Madagascar. So the English name is the same as the name people there use for this secretive, cat-like hunter.