Kinkajou

Although they are not uncommon in Costa Rica, Kinkajous (Potos flavus) are not often seen because they are nocturnal and usually found high in the tropical forest canopy. During the day, Kinkajous sleep hidden in tree holes. I spotted this Kinkajou on a guided night hike through a lowland jungle near the Pacific Ocean.

Kinkajou (Potos flavus) in Costa Rica

He (I assume) was lounging in a treetop, dangling by his prehensile tail, and happily enjoying what appeared to be a ripe mango. Kinkajous are members of the Procyonidae Family along with Coatis (Nasua spp.) and Raccoons (Procyon spp.). Even though most Procyonids are omnivorous and all are classified as carnivores because of their skulls and teeth, Kinkajous mainly eat fruit, along with a few flowers, leaves, insects and some honey.