Bassariscus astutus
The name Bassariscus means “little fox” and may refer to its fox-like face. The Ringtail is buff gray, with black and white bands on the tail ending in a black tip. It has relatively large ears and eyes, with white or pale eye rings, and it has five toes on each foot. It is a bit smaller than a domestic cat. Very little is known about the habits of the ringtail because of its secretive nature. Other common names are miner’s cat, civet cat, coon cat, and cacomistle. Habitat: It lives mostly in rocky areas where there are caves and large crevices, and a water source close by. Diet: The Ringtail is a nocturnal omnivore that hunts small mammals, birds, insects, spiders, frogs, but also will eat fruit.
Adaptations: Its large dark eyes enable it to see well in the dark.
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