Ringtail: meaning, definitions and examples
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ringtail
[ ˈrɪŋteɪl ]
animal species
The ringtail is a nocturnal mammal belonging to the raccoon family, known for its distinctive ringed tail. It is native to North America and is often found in rocky, wooded habitats. These animals are skilled climbers and are known for their agile movements.
Synonyms
bassarisk, ringtailed cat
Examples of usage
- I spotted a ringtail scurrying up a tree.
- The ringtail is often mistaken for a raccoon due to its similar markings.
- In the desert, the ringtail can be seen hunting for insects at night.
Etymology
The term 'ringtail' originates from the combination of the words 'ring' and 'tail', referring to the characteristic feature of the animal - a long tail adorned with multiple rings or bands of color. The name was first used in the early 1900s in North America, primarily to describe the ringtail's appearance. This animal is also known as the ringtail cat or bassarisk, although it is not a cat but rather a member of the carnivorous family Procyonidae, which also includes raccoons. The use of 'tail' in the name highlights the importance of this physical feature in the identification and differentiation of the species within its habitat.