Ring-tail Cat
 | It has been suggested that this article be merged with Bassariscus astutus. (Discuss) Proposed since June 2008. |
Ring-tail Cats are named that for their seven or eight black rings on their tail. Technically, Ring-tail Cats are not related to cats at all; they are in the family of Procyonidae, otherwise known as Bassariscus Astusus. They range from southern Mexico all the way to the Southwestern United States. 1 They are rarely seen and are nocturnal creatures. 2
Physical Appearance
Ring-tail Cats have black and white tails, with seven or eight black rings. Their fur is brown and grey. They have very large ears, outlined with white fur. Their length ranges between 24-32 inches, and their tails can be anywhere between 12-17 inches. 1 Their sharp claws make it easier for them to climb trees. 3
Evolution
The ring-tails are classified in the Procyonidae family. The Procyonidae are classified as a "New World" family also, which means it is mainly in the Americas, although its ancestors did originate from the "Old World". This family includes the genera Bassariscus, Bassaricyon, Nasua, Potos, and Procyon, A.K.A. raccoons. The karyotypic uniformity of the group causes argument that they are closely related. 2
Taxonomy
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Carnivora
Family: Procyonidae
Genus: Bassariscus
Species: Bassariscus Astutus 2
Reproduction
The Ring-tail Cats mating season is in April. While the female is pregnant, the male provides the food for her. They are born between May and June, and have between two to four offspring per litter. The offspring are hairless and cannot open their eyes for five or six weeks. After this period of time, fur starts to cover their bodies. The offspring are unable to reproduce until their second year of life, and are able to hunt independently at four months. 1
Diet
The Ring-tail Cat is an omnivore. It feeds on spiders, scorpions, centipedes, grasshoppers, crickets, rats, mice, squirrels, rabbits, small birds, snakes, lizards, frogs, and toads, and fruits like persimmons, hackberries, juniper, and mistletoe. Being nocturnal, they hunt during the night. Their eyes are large, and help them see better. 4
References
1. Desert USA
2. SFSU
3. Humboltd
4. Lion Crusher