Species profile
About this species
The spotted fanaloka is a small carnivorous mammal endemic to Madagascar, belonging to the family Eupleridae. It has a pale brown coat adorned with rows of dark spots along its sides & back, & a bushy tail that can store fat reserves. It is a shy, nocturnal creature that inhabits the rainforests of eastern Madagascar & is listed as vulnerable due to habitat loss.
Dense lowland & mid-altitude rainforests of eastern Madagascar, typically near streams & marshy areas with thick undergrowth.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Spotted fanaloka 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
Best photographed at night during the dry season from April to October, when movement through the forest is easier & the animals are actively foraging along streambeds.
Use a camera with strong low-light or high ISO performance as this species is nocturnal & most active after dark. Move slowly & quietly through forest edges near streams where fanaloka are known to forage, minimising sudden movements that will cause them to flee. A red-filtered torch can help illuminate the subject without startling it, allowing you to compose your shot carefully.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Spotted fanaloka
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.