Cute, new mammal olinguito was confused with this animal


Then scientists realized the 2-pound cutie was actually a distinct species, making it science’s newest mammal and first carnivore discovered in the Americas in 35 years. (You can read more about the Smithsonian’s announcement here and here).

But who was the other animal that masked olinguito’s identity for so long? Turns out it was the bigger, drabber olingo. See for yourself in the photos above if you think olinguito looks anything like olingo.


Vanessa Ho