Created 9-Mar-07
Modified 8-Jan-24
The ring-tailed coati (Nasua nasua) is a member of the racoon family, and is found in South America. Ring-tailed coati have strong fore-limbs and long claws (used for climbing trees), and are able to rotate their ankles through 180º, in order to allow them to descend from trees head first. Coati are omnivorous, typically eating fruit, insects, and small animals or birds eggs. The females typically live in groups of 15-30, with the males being solitary.
All the animals in this gallery are held in captivity at Marwell Zoo.
© Martin Chivers Photography