Watch the new endangered binturong cubs, born at Beale Park

A West Berkshire wildlife park is celebrating two new, rare arrivals, writes Maisie Day.

Beale Wildlife Park, an animal charity and family attraction in Lower Basildon, has welcomed two new binturong cubs, or bintlets – an exceptional event in captivity and a great success for its breeding programme.

First-time mum Rosie and dad Ted are part of Beale's long term commitment to endangered species, and the birth of the twin binlets - a girl and boy, named Poppy and Bear – in February, marks a major achievement for the park's ongoing efforts in endangered species care.

Binturongs, or bearcats, are classified as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, facing ongoing threats from habitat destruction, hunting, and the illegal wildlife trade and their dwindling population has made captive breeding programmes vital to their survival.

Well-known for their tree-dwelling habits and fascinating popcorn-like scent, binturongs play an essential role in their domestic ecosystems as seed dispersers.

However, breeding them successfully in a conservation setting remains a challenge, making these twin arrivals even more remarkable.

Now at just over 15 weeks old, Poppy and Bear are becoming increasingly adventurous - play fighting, exploring their surroundings and even charming their keepers - Bryony and Matt - with their already unique personalities.

Animal keeper Bryony added: "The bintlets have been so great, they're a first for the park and great contribution to the breeding programme.

“They're growing so quick and becoming quite a handful, thanks to Rosie and Ted being such great parents."

Fellow keeper Matt added: "Our two bintlets are continuing to thrive and become characters with the help of their parents. Both playing a huge role in the conservation of their species."

With Poppy and Bear settling in to life at Beale Wildlife Park, the team is eager to continue raising awareness and advocating for Binturong conservation.

Visitors are now invited to meet Poppy and Bear, along with parents Rosie and Ted, as a way of sharing insight into this more unfamiliar animal.

“The keepers have been so dedicated to the species over the last three years and all their hard work has paid off with the success of Rosie and Ted becoming first-time parents to Poppy and Bear,” added Chloe, an animal keeper at the park.

“It’s a huge accomplishment for the park and the species; it’s been a privilege to watch the general public learn more about one of our more unfamiliar animals during this exciting time too.”