The coatimundi is a member of the raccoon family that is diurnal, meaning it is out mainly during the day.  The coatimundi is an omnivore that eats both plants and meat.  They have long noses that are used to poke under rocks and crevices looking for insects and small animals.

Lifespan

Coatimundis in the wild typically live between 7 and 8 years.  In captivity, coatimundis can live between 15 and 16 years of age.

Shape & Size

Coatimundis are typically between 13 and 27 inches from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail, which can be as long as their bodies.  They weigh anywhere from 4.4 to 17.6 pounds.  Males are typically larger than females.

Color Pattern

Coatimundis have either a light brown or black coat and have a long ringed tail.  They have paws like raccoons.  Coatimundis have a long snout that is some-what like a pig's snout and is very flexible, able to be moved 60 degrees in any direction.

Behavior

Unlike most members of the raccoon family, coatimundis are diurnal; they are more active during the day than at night.  Female coatimundis often form loosely organized groups that can include up to 25 individuals.  The males are typically solitary due to their aggressive tendencies.

Habitat

Coatimundis are widespread and live in habitats ranging from hot and arid areas to humid rainforests and even to the cold mountains of the Andes.

Principal Threats

The coatimundi’s principal threat is habitat loss.  Though these animals are very adaptable, they are running out of available land to keep their numbers up.

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Range Map

Range

Coatimundis are found from southwestern United States down through Central America and into Brazil.

Food

Coatimundis are omnivores.  They eat mostly ground insects and fruits.  They spend a lot of time foraging for food, but will also eat small vertebrates, such as lizards and rodents.

Reproductive Habits

Coatimundis become sexually mature at about 2 years of age.  Their gestation period is about 77 days.  Typically, 3 to 5 coatimundi kits are in a litter.

Behavior

Coatimundis spend most of their day foraging for food, unlike their other relatives in the raccoon family that are typically nocturnal.  When provoked or for defense, coatimundis can be very fierce, using their sharp teeth and claws to attack potential predators.  Coatimundis will use various sounds to communicate their intentions within the group, like chirping or grunting sounds.  Coatimundis have scent glands on their necks and bellies that are used to mark territory and to recognize one another.

Conservation

Coatimundis are classified as "least concern" on the IUCN Red List.

Fun Facts

  • Coatimundis make treetops in the rainforest their homes, by building twig-and-leaf nests in the branches for the babies
  • Coatimundis are very chatty and make a variety of noises such as clicks, grunts, whistles, and barks as they forage for food
  • Coatimundis can move up to 15 mph
  • Coatimundis are excellent climbers and good swimmers

About Carolina Tiger Rescue

Carolina Tiger Rescue is a 501(c)3 nonprofit wildlife sanctuary whose mission is saving and protecting wild cats in captivity and in the wild.

Carolina Tiger Rescue

1940 Hanks Chapel Rd. Pittsboro, NC 27312 (919) 542-4684 (919) 542-4454 info@carolinatigerrescue.org

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  • We believe the ideal home for wildlife is in the wild.
  • We believe it is critical to conserve their native habitats.
  • We believe wild animals should not be kept as pets.
  • We believe captive breeding should ONLY be done in accordance with Species Survival plans.
  • We believe all wild animals, both captive and in their native habitats, deserve to be treated with respect and not exploited for entertainment and commercial purposes.

Visit Carolina Tiger Rescue

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Public Tours

Twilight Tours

Coming out for a tour is a great way to learn more about the animals that call Carolina Tiger Recue home. We offer many different types of tours.  Public tours are great for adults and families. Twilight tours are for adults only (18 years of age and older). Tiger Tales are a perfect option if you want to bring out really young children. Find the tour that is right for you and enjoy a walk through the sanctuary.

For all tours, tickets must be purchased in advance.

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Field Trips

Field Trips

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Virtual Field Trips

Education is key to our mission.  We enjoy teaching "kids" of all ages!  Our field trips, both virtual and onsite, are ideal for groups of kids.  Our "Kid for a Day" Adult Camp provides a unique learning opportunity while allowing adults to channel their inner child.  While all of these opportunities are structured differently, in the end we want everyone to walk away knowing more about the animals we care for and what they can do to help protect them.

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There are so many ways to be a part of Carolina  Tiger Rescue.  Individual volunteers are able to help in many aspects of our work, including animal care, tour guides, construction, and gift shop assistance.  Work groups come from community groups, colleges, work places, and more!  It’s a great way to spend a day and it helps care for the cats.