Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Coati
Scientific name: Nasua nasua

IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: PROCYONIDAE
Group: Mammals
Shyness: Suspicious
Safe distance: 20 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.03-30.06
Gestation: 2 à 3 mois
Births: 01.06-31.08
Habitat:
Tropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, savannas, and mountains
Description:
The Coati is a mammal belonging to the raccoon family, easily recognized by its long ringed tail and elongated snout shaped like a trunk. Its fur is typically light brown to reddish-brown, with darker markings on the face and back. This small carnivore is known for its great agility, especially in trees where it moves with ease in search of food. It primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical forests in Central and South America.
The Coati is omnivorous and feeds on a wide variety of foods, including fruits, insects, small vertebrates, and eggs. It is often seen in family groups, especially females, while adult males tend to live alone. Although the Coati is a relatively adaptable animal, it is threatened by deforestation, hunting, and habitat loss. It plays an important role in seed dispersal and regulating populations of insects and small animals.
Recommended lens:
>=200 mm
Photography tips:
Use a telephoto lens to photograph coatis in their natural environment. They are often seen foraging in groups. Photograph them early in the morning or late in the day for the best light. Be discreet to avoid scaring them away.
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