Increased numbers of ringtail ‘cat’ sightings have been reported around town in recent months. Ringtails are actually relatives of raccoons and are excellent climbers which is perhaps why they are often incorrectly perceived as felines. According to Wikipedia, ringtails are primarily nocturnal, with large eyes and upright ears that make it easier for them to navigate and forage in the dark.  The rings on their tails can also act as a distraction for predators. The white rings act as a target, so when the tail rather than the body is caught, the ringtail has a greater chance of escaping. Photo Courtesy New Mexico Game & Fish