Cleverness, Tenacity, Solitude, Stealth
 
 
 
 
Actually related to raccoons, the ringtail or "miners cat" was kept by American settlers and prospectors as a pet and mouser.
 
 
 
 
With a long tail for balance, and hind feet that can turn backwards, ringtails climb rocky ledges, trees and deep crevices with ease.
 
 
 
 
As omnivores, they will eat seeds, nuts, fruits, berries, insects, snakes, toads, lizards, mice, birds, squirrels and even rabbits.
 
 
 
 
 Although skilled at avoiding predators, ringtails will scream, bristle their tails, and discharge a repellant scent when threatened.