Pronunciation: [fˈalɐnˌa͡ʊk] (IPA) 
The word "falanouc" is spelled with the letter combination "ou" which can be tricky for English speakers as it can be pronounced in different ways. In this case, the "ou" is pronounced as "/u/" like the "oo" in "book". The rest of the word is spelled phonetically, with the stress falling on the second syllable. The IPA transcription for "falanouc" is /fælənuːk/. This word refers to a small, carnivorous mammal native to Madagascar.
The falanouc is a small, nocturnal mammal native to Madagascar and classified under the family Eupleridae. It is primarily known for its distinct appearance and unique ecological adaptations. The falanouc is approximately 40-55 centimeters long, including its long tail, and weighs around 1-2 kilograms. It has predominantly brown or reddish-brown fur, which is dense and coarse, providing effective protection against the tropical climate.
Characterized by its cat-like appearance, the falanouc possesses a round head with a pointed snout, long whiskers, and round, black eyes. Its limbs are short and sturdy, allowing for agility in navigating the forest floor. This mammal is also equipped with sharp, semi-retractable claws, enabling it to ambulate easily on various surfaces.
As a carnivorous species, the falanouc feeds primarily on small vertebrates like birds, reptiles, and amphibians. It has specialized jaw structures and elongated canine teeth exceptionally adapted for capturing and devouring its prey. Being predominantly nocturnal, the falanouc exhibits heightened senses of smell and hearing to effectively hunt during the dark hours.
Due to habitat loss and predation by introduced species, the falanouc faces significant threats to its population. It primarily resides in rainforests and dense vegetation, relying on its remarkable agility and camouflage abilities to avoid predators. Conservation efforts are underway to preserve its natural habitat and ensure its survival in the wild.
The word "falanouc" is a Malagasy term that refers to a small carnivorous mammal native to Madagascar. It belongs to the family Eupleridae and is scientifically known as Eupleres goudotii.
The etymology of "falanouc" is not entirely clear, as the origins of many Malagasy words remain uncertain. However, it is believed to come from a combination of two Malagasy words: "fala", which means "cat", and "nouk", meaning "mongoose". This etymology suggests that the word "falanouc" describes the animal as a cat-like mongoose.
It is worth noting that the term "falanouc" is also spelled in various ways, including "falanoi", "falunouc", or "fanalok".
