Reproduction

Breeding takes place year round but peaks in certain areas when fruit is abundant. A male will mate with several females. He will pursue her for several hours before she becomes receptive to mating. He is often followed by a subordinate male who will challenge him to mate with the female.

After a successful mating, it takes between 98 and 120 days for the young to be born. On a rare occasion twins, can be born. The birth takes place in a tree hollow where the infant is protected. At birth the eyes are closed. They will remain that way for the first month of life. As such the baby is left in the tree hollow while the mother goes foraging. She will also carry it in her mouth when climbing and hold it when resting.

Solid food is first tried at eight weeks old. It takes four months for them to gain their independence. They will not go out on their own till 18 months old for male infants and 24 months for females. Sexual maturity is achieved at a similar time.

Behaviour

The Kinkajou is preyed upon by foxes, cats and humans who use their fur for saddles and wallets as well as eating their meat. They can also cause disturbance to coconut plantations.

This species is nocturnal as a means of avoiding predators. They carry out most of their activity in the hours between sunset and midnight. Their days are spent in a tree hollow or amongst leaves resting. They follow a similar route each night when moving through the forest to feed.

Their main method of communication is scent. They can also make calls similar to a human scream to communicate. Other calls include squeaks, barks and hisses.

Groups of kinkajous often consist of two males and a female with her young. They share a territory with one of the males taking on a dominant role. This group shares a territory and will often sleep together. They groom as the sun sets but will then go out on their own to feed.

Quick facts

Kinkajous are popular in several places as exotic pets.

They have developed the name “lion monkey” or micoleón in the local language in some areas where they are kept. They are also referred to as “honey bears.” In some areas, they are known by a Spanish term “la llorona” meaning “the crying woman” a reference to their vocalisation.