Buzz
The ring-tailed coati, scientifically known as Nasua nasua, thrives across tropical and subtropical regions of South America, predominantly in the lowlands east of the Andes Mountains. Jon G. Fuller, Jr./VW PICS/Universal Images Group/Getty ImagesMany adorable creatures might tempt you to cuddle or even adopt them as pets. The coatimundi, or coati, is undeniably charming but far from being a suitable pet. Their inquisitive nature and high intelligence make them challenging companions.
Native to Central and South America, coatis are highly social mammals related to raccoons and kinkajous. Females are roughly the size of a housecat, while males can be nearly double in size. They boast thick, silky fur, elongated snouts, and tails that stand upright, making them easily identifiable even when hidden in tall grass. These diurnal animals spend their days foraging and defending their territories.
The term 'coati' originates from a Brazilian indigenous language, translating to 'belt nose,' a nod to their unique sleeping posture where they curl up with their noses nestled into their stomachs.
Male coatis prefer a solitary lifestyle, whereas females and their offspring gather in sizable groups. Initially, scientists mistook the larger, lone males for a distinct species due to their markedly different physical traits and behaviors compared to females.
Coatis Are Opportunistic Eaters
Coatis are versatile eaters, primarily consuming insects like beetles and termites, but they also enjoy fruits, small animals such as frogs and lizards, and even carrion when available.
"Their dietary preferences evolve with age; juveniles favor invertebrates and fruits, while adults may shift to vertebrates," explains Marco Wendt, a wildlife ambassador at the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. "In captivity, coatis are fed a varied diet including fruits, meats, vegetables, and grubs. In their natural habitat, solitary males are more adept at hunting lizards and rodents, whereas females in groups rely heavily on their keen sense of smell to locate food."
The white-nosed coati (Nasua narica) boasts strong forelimbs, enabling it to climb trees effortlessly to access fruits and flowers. However, it primarily forages on the ground for worms, spiders, and other invertebrates throughout the day. Georg Wendt/picture alliance/Getty ImagesDo Coatimundis Make Good Pets?
Among the Procyonidae family, female coatis are arguably the least suitable for domestication. Their high intelligence, a trait not always desirable in wild housemates, stems from their highly social nature. A 2013 study in Brain, Behavior and Evolution revealed that female coatis, living in social groups, possess significantly larger frontal cortical volumes than male coatis, raccoons, and kinkajous, attributed to their lifelong social interactions.
"Female coatis form groups of 20 or more, dedicating their time to socializing, caring for their young, and foraging," explains Wendt. "A clear dominance hierarchy exists within these groups. Males, on the other hand, lead solitary lives, focusing solely on securing food and playing no role in raising offspring."
Coatis are divided into four species: two inhabiting lower elevations and two residing in mountainous regions. The mountain-dwelling species, found in Venezuela, Colombia, and Ecuador, are classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
"Mountain coatis face numerous threats, including deforestation, agricultural expansion, vehicle collisions, and hunting. In many regions, they are viewed as pests due to their occasional raids on poultry and crop damage," states the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance.
While some U.S. states allow coati ownership with a permit, it is strongly discouraged.
"Coatis are wild animals and unsuitable as pets," Wendt emphasizes. "Their perpetual curiosity, agility, and strength have been compared to caring for an exceptionally intelligent toddler who never matures."
A group of female coatis is referred to as a 'troop.'
