New Mexico field viewing guide
Ringtail in New Mexico — where & when to see them by RV
Bassariscus astutus
Shy, nocturnal cousins of raccoons, often seen scampering across canyon walls at dusk.
5peak months
3prime spots
Natural history
About the Ringtail
Ringtails are solitary, nocturnal omnivores that eat insects, fruits, and small vertebrates. Their long, bushy tail helps them balance on narrow rock ledges and tree branches.
Where to look
Conservation status
See the Ringtail up close
When to watch
The best months to see the ringtail
Wildlife runs on a calendar. Here is the window when sightings peak in New Mexico — plan your trip around the lit months, then check the local refuge or park report before you go.
Best months
May · Jun · Jul · Aug · Sep
Best seen at dusk or just after dark; check the official park or forest website for recent sightings and ranger-led night walks.
Plan the trip
Base your New Mexico RV trip
Good to know
Common questions
Are ringtails related to raccoons?
Yes, they belong to the same family, Procyonidae, and share a similar masked face but have a more slender body and a distinctive black-and-white ringed tail.
Where is the best place in New Mexico to see a ringtail?
The Gila canyon country at dusk is a classic spot, especially along rocky cliffs near water sources in Gila National Forest.
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