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Cacomistle
- also spelled Cacomixl (Bassariscus), either of two
species of large-eyed, long-tailed carnivores related to the raccoon.
Cacomistles are grayish brown with lighter underparts and white
patches over their eyes. The total length is about 24–40 inches,
about half of which is the bushy, black-and-white-ringed tail. The
animals weigh about 2 pounds and have small faces with long ears and
pointed snouts. They are arboreal and nocturnal and feed on a variety
of small animals, fruit, and vegetation. The gestation period is about
51–54 days, and litters contain from one to five (usually three or
four) young.
The
species B. astutus, widely known as miner's cat, ringtailed
cat, or ringtail, is found in rocky areas from the southwestern
United States to southern Mexico. It is an agile animal with rounded
ears and semiretractile claws. It is sometimes kept as a pet and is an
excellent mouser.
"cacomistle."
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