This newly discovered mammal species, Olinguito was found in a mountainous forest in Ecuador. It’s appearance resembles a bear face with the body of a raccoon. The new mammal was found by a group of Smithsonian researchers led by Kristofer Helgen. At first glance it may be mistaken for a sister species the olingo however olinguitos are smaller have a rounder face, and bushier fur. The olinguito’s diet consists of fruit and weighs around 2 pounds. She also gives birth to one baby at a time. According to Helgen, there may be thousands of olinguito’s in the forests but since they travel through the trees at night they are harder to spot.
Source: MSN/Associated Press
Image source: Associated Press
