|
|
What is a Bearcat?
The word first appeared in print circa 1889 as a synonym for the giant panda. "Bearcat" is a simple
translation of the Chinese word for panda-xiong mao-which means "bear-cat." There is no definitive example of
what a Bearcat actually is. Here are two theories...
Red Panda
The Red Panda, Ailurus fulgens ("shining cat"), which is a mostly herbivorous mammal, specialized
as a bamboo feeder. It is slightly larger than a domestic cat (40 - 60 cm long, 3 - 6 kg weight). The Red Panda is endemic to
the Himalayas in Bhutan, southern China, India, Laos, Nepal, and Burma. Red Panda is the state animal in the Indian state of
Sikkim. It is also the mascot of the Darjeeling international festivals. There is an estimated population of less than 2,500
mature individuals. Their population continues to decline due to habitat fragmentation. This species more closely resembles
the actual Bearcat costumed mascot which is seen at games.
Binturong
The Binturong (Arctictis binturong), which is a species of the family Viverridae, which includes the
civets and genets. It is neither a bear nor a cat, and the real meaning of the original name is lost, as the local language
that gave it is extinct. Its natural habitat is in trees of forest canopy in rainforest of Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia and
Palawan Island. In past years a live Binturong has been present at UC Athletics event, namely a former resident of the Cincinnati
Zoo, who is now deceased.
Cats in the Community
The mission of the UC Bearcat football program "Cats in the
Community", a community service outreach initiative, is to allow our student-athletes and the Cincinnati community
to develop a sense of moral and social responsibility together. As a community service based organization, "Cats
in the Community" will represent the "C" and promote positive change through growth of family values, personal
development and  .
|
|
|
