Details
Bassariscus astutus
A small procyonid of the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is recognized by large eyes, agile climbing, and a long black-and-white ringed tail.
Map: Ecoregions 2017 © RESOLVE (CC BY 4.0) · Natural Earth (PD)
Ringtails use desert canyons, rocky slopes, dry woodland, and riparian forest. Rock crevices, tree cavities, and abandoned mines serve as dens.
The body is slender with large ears and dark eyes. The very long banded tail aids balance while moving through cliffs and trees.
It is nocturnal and mostly solitary. Flexible ankles and a long tail help it climb steep rock faces and move through narrow ledges.
Diet includes rodents, birds, insects, reptiles, fruits, and nuts. Seasonal prey and fruit availability strongly shape foraging.
Breeding occurs in spring, with young raised in protected dens. Juveniles remain hidden at first and later learn climbing and hunting from the mother.
The name miner's cat reflects its habit of denning around mines and buildings, though it is not a cat.
