The Coati, also called the Coatimundi, White-nosed Coati, or the Ring-tailed Coati is a mammal of the Sonoran and Chihuahuan deserts of the southwestern United States and south into Mexico. The only other member of this group is the Brown-nosed Coati of South America. Coati appear to be spreading to the north since they have only been known to occur in the United States since 1900.
The Coati is a medium-sized animal with a long, somewhat prehensile tail, and a pig-like snout. The Coati stands about 12 inches at the shoulders and can weigh up to 25 pounds. The males are almost twice as big as the females.
Female Coatis and their young are highly gregarious, roaming the woodlands in groups of several to as many as 20 members. The males are solitary. During February and March the most dominant male living near the center of the band's range gradually attaches himself to the band. After breeding has taken place with each female, the male is expelled from the band by the females. Near the time of birth, females leave the band and construct a nest of sticks, branches, and leaves. Three to five small, poorly developed young are born and are ready to explore the surroundings after six weeks.
Like their close relative, the Raccoon, Coatis are considered omnivorous, feeding on small rodents, worms, insects and tubers.
Coatis are equally at home in the trees as they are on the ground. When danger approaches, they scamper up a tree seeking protection. Coatis possess sharp teeth and long claws and can be a formidable adversary when cornered.
