Arizona’s Wildlife

Ringtail

The ringtail has a fox-like head with large, rounded ears. Its small, slender body ranges from pale yellowish to brownish-gray, with short legs. Its long, bushy tail features bold blackish-brown and white rings and a black tip.

• Common Name:

  Ringtail

• Scientific Name:

  Bassariscus

• Weight:

  2 to 2.5 lbs

• Conservation Status:

  Not Evaluated

• Size:

  The body is 14-16 inches long on average; the tail can reach 15 inches long

• Where to See:

  Southeast Texas north and west to southwestern Oregon and south through Oaxaca, Mexico. Arizona: essentially statewide, but absent from most flatlands and high elevations.

About

Mostly nocturnal and solitary, ringtails den in caves, crevices, hollow trees and often mine tunnels during the day. These agile climbers can rotate their hind feet 180 degrees, permitting them to rapidly ascend and descend steep rocks, vertical cliffs, and tree trunks; an adaptation to the rocky habitats they prefer. Ringtails are omnivores that feed on insects, small mammals, reptiles, birds, fruit, and carrion. As such, they may often be found near human habitation, often inhabiting unused buildings and even attics, causing concern with its mysterious nighttime noises. Ringtails breed in late-winter to mid-spring. Most litters consist of two to four babies, which are born covered with short, pale hair, unable to see and hear. By the age of four months, young ringtails have acquired their adult coloring.

Official State Mammal

The ringtail, Arizona’s official state mammal, is a small, nocturnal relative of the raccoon and coati. Often called a “ringtail cat” due to its long, bushy tail with black and white rings, it is an agile climber and skilled hunter, preying on insects, rodents and fruit. Found in rocky canyons and desert regions, this elusive creature is known for its remarkable ability to navigate steep terrain with ease.

Check your wallet: The ringtail is featured on Arizona drivers’ licenses.

Wildlife Viewing

See wildlife species in the wild.
The Wildlife Viewing Program is committed to achieving wildlife conservation by engaging the public in activities and with cams that increase awareness of and appreciation for wildlife garnering public support for the Department’s unique role in wildlife management. These practices ensure the continued existence of Arizona’s diverse wildlife and habitats by promoting sustainable viewing practices.

See more in the wildlife viewing section of the website