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cacomistle

cacomistle

El Salvador, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Belize
Status
Least Concern

IUCN conservation assessment category

Habitat
Forest, Grassland, Wetland

Primary ecological niche & biome

Diet
invertebrates, forest rodents, and opportunistic small prey

Dietary type and primary food source

Activity
crepuscular

Diurnal, nocturnal, or active patterns

Scientific Summary

GBIF Taxonomic Backbone & Wikipedia Registry Profile

PROTECTED STATUS: CITES - Appendix III (Costa Rica).
Biology & Conservation

Ecologically, the conservation status of cacomistle is officially designated as Least Concern. Current field registries estimate a global population composed of an unquantified number of individuals, making habitat preservation critical to maintaining their wild populations.

It is typically endemic to forest, grassland, wetland, showing great physiological synergy with its surroundings. In terms of dietary preferences, it relies primarily on a diet of invertebrates, forest rodents, and opportunistic small prey. It exhibits specialized adaptations centered around a crepuscular activity pattern, optimizing its energy conservation and interactions within its native ecosystem. The species has a typical natural lifespan of approximately 12 years, allowing it to adapt and mature through structured generational cycles.

Ongoing biological monitoring and ecological advocacy emphasize the importance of protecting this species. The stability of its food chain and the prevention of fragmentation in its primary range are vital for the continued survival of cacomistle.

Energy & Activity Profile
Habitat & Adaptation Index
Quick Facts
Native RangeEl Salvador, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Belize
Habitat RangeForest, Grassland, Wetland
Lifespan12 Yrs
StatusLeast Concern
ScientificBassariscus sumichrasti
Registry Info
Lifespan12 years
KingdomAnimalia
FamilyProcyonidae
Cacomistle (Bassariscus sumichrasti) - Taxon, Habitat & Photos | Symphony of Horizon | Symphony of Horizon