Ringtail

Bassariscus astutus

In a narrow den often padded with moss, grass, or leaves, the Ringtail sleeps by day, lying on its side, its back (summer), or with its tail wrapped about its curled body (winter). It grooms itself upon awakening, scratching with a hindleg, licking its fur, and using its moistened forepaws to clean ears, cheeks, and nose. A relative of the raccoon, the Ringtail can leap like a squirrel, and its extraordinarily sharp claws permit it to climb walls or trees.

Look For : A nocturnal foxlike animal with big brown eyes, a light yellowish-brown coat, and a long, bushy, black-banded tail.

Length : Body 12-15" long.

Habitat : Rocky areas in desert and brush.

Range : California, Oregon, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, and all of the Southwest.