Species profile
About this species
The fossa is the largest carnivorous mammal native to Madagascar, resembling a cross between a cat & a mongoose. It has a slender, muscular body, retractable claws, & a long tail that aids balance as it moves through the forest canopy. Despite its cat-like appearance, it is more closely related to mongooses & civets within the family Eupleridae.
The fossa is found primarily in the dense tropical rainforests & dry deciduous forests of Madagascar, ranging from lowland coastal forests to montane forests at higher elevations, with the greatest concentrations in protected areas such as Kirindy Mitea & Ranomafana National Park.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Fossa with us in Madagascar.
These departures are part of our Africa programme.
In the field, David Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Early morning & late afternoon during the dry season between April & October offer the best light & most active behaviour, particularly during the September to November mating season when fossas are most visible.
Use a long telephoto lens of at least 300mm to capture the fossa without disturbing its natural behaviour in dense forest. Shoot in burst mode when the animal is moving between trees, as it is agile & fast-moving. Position yourself near known travel routes or fruiting trees where lemurs - the fossa's primary prey - are active, increasing your chances of an encounter.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Fossa
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.