Ringtail

The ringtail's long tail is its most memorable feature: alternating dark and pale bands trail behind a slim, light-brown body. Large rounded ears, pale markings around the eyes and a pointed face complete the outline. Despite the nickname sometimes given to it, this animal is a raccoon relative rather than a cat. In a brief night encounter, the slender body and long tail are more helpful than an impression of fur color under artificial light.

Zion's rock layers offer cracks, ledges and tight spaces where ringtails can put their climbing ability to work. They search for insects, lizards and small mammals, but also eat fruit and other plant foods. Their flexible, varied diet makes sense in canyon country, where food changes across seasons and places. By day they shelter in protected dens, including rock crevices or hollow trees; an animal can be present in a landscape that a daytime visitor never sees.

Ringtails are secretive and nocturnal, so their presence should not be advertised as a reliable trail attraction. They may investigate buildings, rubbish or food left around a campsite, and an accidental food reward can turn a fleeting encounter into a recurring conflict. Keep wildlife observation separate from feeding: secure supplies, close rubbish containers and leave a passing animal a clear route away. Its ability to negotiate a canyon in darkness is worth respecting without following it to a den or trying to light every hiding place.

Slim body, very long black-and-white banded tail, rounded ears, pale eye markings and pointed muzzle.

Rocky shelter and natural food matter most.

Secure food and rubbish; never bait, chase, handle or spotlight an animal inside a den.