The fossa, whose scientific name is Cryptoprocta ferox, is Madagascar's largest carnivorous mammal.  An adult measures between 70 and 120 cm and weighs up to 12 kg. With its feline-like appearance, its tail is almost as long as its body, enabling it to keep its balance and jump from branch to branch. Threatened by intensive deforestation and competition from imported and invasive carnivores, this species is classified as "vulnerable" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).