Quick facts for kidsRingtailRingtail in Phoenix, ArizonaConservation statusLeast Concern(IUCN 3.1)Scientific classificationGenus:BassariscusSpecies:astutusSubspeciesBassariscus a. astutusBassariscus a. arizonensisBassariscus a. flavusBassariscus a. yumanensisBassariscus a. nevadensisRing-tailed cat rangeThe ringtail (Bassariscus astutus) is a mammal of the raccoon family native to arid regions of North America. It is widely distributed and well adapted to disturbed areas. It has been legally trapped for its fur. It is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. The species is known by variety of different names, such as ring-tailed cat, miner's cat, civet cat, and cacomistle (or cacomixtle), though the last of these can refer to B. sumichrasti.The ringtail is the state mammal of Arizona.ContentsDescriptionReproductionRange and habitatDietEcologyTameabilitySee alsoDescriptionThe ringtail is black to dark brown in color with pale underparts. The animal has a pointed muzzle with long wh...
