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Science & Nature • Mammals

Coatimundi

Coatimundi is a common name for coatis, medium-sized mammals in the raccoon family (Procyonidae) found in the Americas.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Coatimundi is a common name for coatis, medium-sized mammals in the raccoon family (Procyonidae) found in the Americas. They are diurnal, omnivorous, and known for their long snouts, ringed tails, and social behavior. The term is often used for adult males or as a general name for the animals.

Taxonomy and naming

Coatimundi is a common name used for coatis, which belong to the family Procyonidae. The name is often applied to adult males or used broadly for the animals, depending on region and source.

Physical characteristics

Coatimundis are medium-sized mammals with long snouts, ringed tails, and sharp claws. Sources describe them as ranging roughly from 13 to 27 inches in body length, with tails nearly as long as their bodies.

Behaviour and diet

Coatimundis are diurnal and highly social, especially females and young. They are omnivores that forage on the ground and in trees for insects, fruit, eggs, and small animals.

Distribution and habitat

Coatimundis occur from the southwestern United States through Mexico, Central America, and much of South America. They live in a wide range of habitats, including forests, scrublands, grasslands, mountains, and some desert areas.

Conservation

Conservation status differs among species, but several are listed as Least Concern. Habitat loss and local population declines are noted in some areas.

Key facts

  • Coatimundis are members of the raccoon family and are closely related to raccoons, kinkajous, and ringtails.
  • They have long, flexible snouts used to search for food in soil, leaf litter, and crevices.
  • Their diet includes fruit, insects, eggs, small vertebrates, and other plant and animal matter.
  • They are active during the day, unlike most raccoons.
  • Females and young often live in groups, while adult males are more solitary.
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Canadian context

Coatimundis are not native to Canada, but they are relevant to Canadian readers through zoological collections, wildlife education, and comparative mammal studies.

Frequently asked questions

What is a coatimundi?
A coatimundi is a coati, a medium-sized mammal in the raccoon family native to the Americas.
Are coatimundis and coatis the same animal?
Yes. Coatimundi is a common name for coatis, though it is sometimes used especially for adult males.
What do coatimundis eat?
They are omnivores and eat fruit, insects, eggs, small vertebrates, and other plant and animal matter.
Where do coatimundis live?
They live in the southwestern United States, Mexico, Central America, and South America, in habitats such as forests and scrublands.
Are coatimundis active at night?
No. They are mainly diurnal, meaning they are active during the day.
Are coatimundis endangered?
Not generally. Conservation status varies by species, but several are listed as Least Concern.

References

  1. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliancehttps://www.sandiegozoo.org/animals/coati
    Supports: Common name usage, family Procyonidae, social structure, and naming explanation
  2. Arizona State Parkshttps://azstateparks.com/coatimundi
    Supports: Distribution, habitat, diet, conservation status, and physical traits
  3. Critter Squadhttps://www.crittersquad.com/fact-sheets/coatimundi-fact-sheet/
    Supports: Family, activity pattern, diet, lifespan, size, and recognition of four species
  4. Carolina Tiger Rescuehttps://carolinatigerrescue.org/species/coatimundi/
    Supports: Diurnal activity, omnivorous diet, lifespan, and general natural history
  5. Southwest Wildlife Conservation Centerhttps://www.southwestwildlife.org/animals/animals-at-the-sanctuary/coatimundi.html
    Supports: Habitat, status, diet, size, and lifespan