New Mexico wildlife
Ringtail
Bassariscus astutus
Shy, nocturnal cousins of raccoons, often seen scampering across canyon walls at dusk.
See the Ringtail up close
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.
Where to look
Conservation status
Stable and common in suitable habitats
Good to know
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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