coatíes

Coatis, also known as coatimundis, are omnivorous mammals belonging to the raccoon family Procyonidae. The two genera are Nasua and Nasuella, comprising four species native to South and Central America, and the southwestern United States. Coatis are characterized by their long, slender snouts, which they use to probe for food, and their long, ringed tails, which they hold upright while foraging for balance. Their fur color varies from brown to reddish-brown or black, with lighter undersides.

These social animals are diurnal, meaning they are most active during the day. Females and young often live in large social groups called "troops," while adult males are typically solitary, except during the mating season. Coatis are skilled climbers and spend a significant amount of time in trees, where they sleep and forage for fruits, insects, spiders, small vertebrates, and bird eggs. They have a highly developed sense of smell and hearing, which aids them in locating prey.

Coatis play an important role in their ecosystems as seed dispersers and insect predators. Their conservation status varies by species, with some facing threats from habitat loss and hunting. They are generally adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and even desert scrublands. Their distinctive appearance and active nature make them a recognizable and fascinating component of neotropical wildlife.