FOSSA or FOUSSA (Cryptoprocta ferox), a civet-like mam mal peculiar to Madagascar, where it is the largest carnivorous animal. It is about twice the size of a cat (5f t. from nose to end of tail), with short close fur of nearly uniform pale brown. It is nocturnal, frequently attacks and carries off goats, and shows great ferocity when wounded. (See CARNIVORA.)