The National Zoo said a binturong named Lola bit two animal-care staff during a routine weight check in a non-public area on Dec. 12. The first employee sustained non-life-threatening injuries after the animal "did not readily let go," and a second staffer was bitten while removing Lola; both were taken to a hospital as a precaution. The zoo described the incident as a "safety incident" and noted Lola can be standoffish. Binturongs are omnivorous Viverridae native to Southeast Asia, and Lola lives with another binturong, Hank.
Binturong ‘Bearcat’ Bites Two National Zoo Keepers During Routine Weight Check; Both Treated at Hospital
Skip Brown/SmithsonianLola the binturong.
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo reported that a binturong named Lola bit two animal-care staff members on Dec. 12 during a routine weight check and training session in an area closed to the public.
According to the zoo, the interaction occurred at about 10 a.m. when Lola bit one staff member and "did not readily let go." That employee sustained non-life-threatening injuries. A second animal-care specialist intervened to remove Lola and place her in a separate enclosure; that staff member was also bitten while moving the animal. Both employees were taken to a hospital "out of an abundance of caution" and received treatment.
Peter Byrne/PA Images via GettyBinturong.
The Zoo’s Statement and Context
The National Zoo characterized the event as a "safety incident" and noted the interaction took place during a standard handling procedure inside a non-public area. The zoo’s online profile for Lola warns she "can be a bit standoffish and makes it clear, in no uncertain terms, where her boundaries lie," advising staff to remain calm and respect her space.
About Binturongs
Binturongs, commonly called bearcats, are neither bears nor cats. They belong to the family Viverridae, which includes civets and related species. Binturongs typically measure 2–3 feet in body length with a prehensile tail roughly equal in length and weigh between 24 and 79 pounds; females are often larger. In the wild they usually live 16–18 years, and in human care can reach about 25 years.
Matt McClain/The Washington Post via GettyHank, another binturong at the National Zoo.
These omnivores have sharp teeth and claws and eat a mix of fruits, berries and small animals—such as birds, rodents, fish and insects—or scavenged carrion. The National Zoo describes their appearance as similar to "mask-less raccoons with tufty whiskers and eyebrows," with shaggy dark fur and muscular bodies.
Other Details
The zoo also houses an 11-year-old binturong named Hank, who lives with Lola. The pair have lived together for years but have not reproduced. The National Zoo did not report life-threatening injuries and indicated staff followed established handling procedures; it described the episode as a safety incident and provided medical care for the affected employees.
What Happens Next
National Zoo officials typically review safety protocols and animal handling practices after incidents like this. The facility has not indicated any changes yet; further updates would come from the zoo as they complete their review and ensure staff and animal welfare.
