Linnaean Classification: Eukarya, Animalia, Chordata, Mammalia, Carnivora, Eupleridae, Cryptoprocta ferox

 

Regulator because it is warm blooded and is able to regulate internal conditions despite changes in climate, though it does not tolerate harsh climates well

 

Migration because it travels from place to place to hunt, unless it is a female with young, in which case she will usually stay in one place and reuse her sleeping den

 

Generalist because they can live in a variety of habitats, like dry forests, savannas, and rainforests

 

Consumer because the fossa cannot produce its own food energy and must get it by consuming other organisms

 

Carnivore because its diet is mostly meat

 

Niche: Fossas are found in a wide range of biomes across Madagascar, like Savannas, dry forests, and rainforests, though they are a bit more comfortable in rainforests because they have many animals to prey on and many trees to climb. They have adapted semi-retractable claws, flexible ankles, and semi plantigrade feet to make it easier to both walk on land and climb in trees. Fossas are active during both the day and the night, with specialized pupils and reflective eyes to make it easier to see in the light and the dark. They prey on mostly small to medium sized animals, like the gray mouse lemur, and while they can be eaten by crocodiles, fossas are generally at the top of their food chain and are mostly killed off by humans or by destruction of habitat.