Meet Bindi, the Popcorn-Scented Binturong
I had my first encounter with a binturong named Bindi at the Santa Ana Zoo. Imagine a large, shaggy raccoon that appears somewhat disgruntled, especially after a rain shower. To my surprise, as I neared her enclosure, I caught a distinct scent—popcorn.
Not just any popcorn—this was the aroma of fresh, buttery popcorn you’d expect at a movie theater. I searched my pockets for snacks, finding none. (Alas.) The delightful smell was emanating from Bindi herself!
What is a Binturong?
Also known as a bearcat, binturongs are neither bears nor cats. They belong to the civet family and are native to Southeast Asia’s rainforests. These fascinating creatures have a fully prehensile tail, which they use like a third arm. It’s a unique feature among Old World mammals, perfect for impressing friends at parties with trivia.
Why Do Binturongs Smell Like Popcorn?
Researchers at Duke University revealed in 2016 that binturong urine contains 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline (2-AP), the same compound responsible for the smell of popcorn, toasted bread, and cooked rice. Binturongs urinate in a way that their tails and feet get soaked, leaving a popcorn scent trail in the forest for other binturongs.
Interestingly, 2-AP typically forms only at high heat, but in binturongs, it’s believed to develop when their urine interacts with skin and gut bacteria. Nature is truly remarkable!
A Popcorn-Scented Wish
With all these delightful attributes, I fantasize about having a binturong at home. A creature that’s part bear, part cat, and smells like popcorn? Who wouldn’t want that?! Unfortunately, binturongs are considered vulnerable due to habitat loss and the exotic pet trade. Most U.S. states have strict laws against private ownership, often requiring complicated permits.
So, for now, the delightful popcorn smell will remain associated with theaters, and I’ll just have to indulge in that next time I’m at the concession stand, asking for “extra binturong whiffs on my popcorn, please!”
