Ringtail (Bassariscus astutus)

This time last year, the San Antonio River Authority (SARA) office became a flurry of excitement with eyes and smartphone cameras pointing at a tree outside of the window. Some employees thought they were staring at an unusual looking cat, but it was actually a confused Ringtail, flushed by the fussing squirrels and blue jays. Ringtails are not endangered, so why the office excitement? These nocturnal mammals are incredibly secretive, sleeping in trees, rock crevices, and building nooks during the day. In fact, most people have never set eyes on this elusive Texas native.

Ringtail, the common name for Bassaruscus astutus, perfectly describes the alternating white and black ring-pattern on its tail. Another common name for this mammal is a “Ringtail Cat” so we can see why this two-to-three-pound mammal in the raccoon family might be mistaken for a cat. Its tail can be just as long as both its head and body, and is used for balance. Besides an awesome tail, Ringtails can rotate their hind legs 180 degrees, making them superb climbers. Talk about flexibility!

Ringtails are also flexible in their diet and habitat. Ringtails prey on birds, bird eggs, and mice, and also eat cactus fruit, honey, and berries. Ringtails might occasionally indulge in hot dogs and fries if they live in a city. Like many other wild mammal species, Ringtails adapt to urban environments, therefore, it is important to properly dispose of human food.

Whether urban or rural, the land surrounding the San Antonio River’s fresh waters provide an excellent riparian habitat for these graceful mammals. Restoration projects, like the Mission Reach section of the San Antonio River Walk, ensure that native species continue to thrive in South Texas.

Let’s all do our part to support the ongoing efforts of SARA by making sure land is clean, because clean land means clean water for all wildlife! Consider yourself fortunate if you have the rare opportunity to see a Ringtail during the day!

Posted on May 3, 2018 02:18 PM by