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South American Coatimundi

Nasua nasua

Class: Mammalia Order: Carnivora Family: Procyonidae

Size

Size: Body: 16-27 inches, Tail: 12-17 inches

Lifespan

Lifespan (Wild): 7-8 years
Lifespan (Captivity): 10-15 years

Diet

Plants, nuts, fruit, insects

Habitat & Range

Forests and rainforests of South America 

Interesting Facts

  • Coatis are members of the Procyonidae family. This group of omnivorous mammals also includes raccoons, kinkajous, and olingos. Procyonids often have ringed tails and facial markings.
  • Unlike their raccoon relatives, coatis are diurnal This means they are most active during the day. They spend much of their time foraging for food and grooming and sleep in trees at night.
  • A coati’s tail may be as long as their body. They use their long, slender tails for balance and communication. They also communicate through vocalizations including as grunts, chirps, and clicks.
  • Male coatis are often solitary, but females generally forms groups, called bands, of up to 30 individuals.

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Threats

While listed as least concern, this species is threatened by habiat loss and over-hunting.