Bassariscus astutus, commonly known as the ringtail, is a nocturnal mammal native to North America. This small animal can be found in a variety of habitats, including deserts, forests, and rocky areas. Synonyms for B. astutus include ring-tailed cat, miner's cat, and civet cat. Despite its name, the ringtail is not a cat, but rather a member of the raccoon family. This agile creature has a long, striped tail that helps it balance on narrow ledges and climb trees. It is known for its intelligence and resourcefulness, often adapting to changing environments and finding ways to survive in human-modified landscapes.