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Mammalthon 2: White-Nosed Coati (Nasua narica)

Posted on May 13, 2008 by in Carnivores, Mammalthons | 3 comments

Nasua narica
Number 0166

My dad asked me to draw him a coatimundi. It turns out that the coatimundi, once thought to be a separate species, is actually a male coati. Coatimundi, in a Central American Indian language I can’t pin down for certain, means “lone coati” or “solitary coati,” and adult male coatis are a lonesome bunch, roaming about alone while the females form groups.

There are two species of coati. This one lives in Central America up to Arizona and New Mexico. In parts of its range, it’s called the pizote. One of the coolest things about coatis is that they can move the tips of their noses around. Do an image search and you’ll see what I mean.

One mammal left in Mammalthon 2! If you ordered a drawing: We sent out about half of them today. If you are related to me and live in town, I will give you yours in person. Otherwise, start checking your mail later this week or early next week!

Consecutive days of mammals: 11
Previous record: 11

3 Comments

  1. Great job, Jen! I had always thought that Coati was just short for coatimundi.

  2. It turns out that coatimundi is long for coati! Glad you like your fellow.

  3. I am fascinated by the coatimundi.
    Your drawing is wonderful.

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