Pronunciation: [kˈə͡ʊtiz] (IPA) 
Coatis is spelled with the letter "o" followed by the letters "at" and ending with "is". The IPA phonetic transcription for "coatis" is /koʊˈɑːtis/. The first syllable "co" is pronounced with a long "o" sound followed by a stressed "a" sound, while the second syllable "atis" is pronounced with a stressed "a" sound followed by a short "i" sound and ending with an "s" sound. The spelling of "coatis" accurately represents its pronunciation.
Coatis, also known as coatimundis, are small to medium-sized mammals native to the Americas. They belong to the family Procyonidae, which includes raccoons and kinkajous. Coatis are easily recognizable by their slender body, long snout, and a ringed tail that is often held upright.
The average coati measures around 50 to 70 centimeters in length, with an additional tail length of approximately 40 to 70 centimeters. They usually weigh between 4 to 8 kilograms, with males being slightly larger than females. Coatis have coarse fur that is generally a reddish-brown color, but some species may exhibit variations in coat color.
These agile creatures are highly adapted to life in the forest. They possess sharp claws, allowing them to climb trees with ease. Coatis are omnivorous, feeding on a varied diet that includes fruits, insects, small vertebrates, and even bird eggs. They use their long, flexible snouts to search for food in crevices and under leaves.
Coatis are predominantly diurnal and are known for their social behavior. They live in groups called bands, which generally consist of females and their offspring. Males are typically solitary, joining these bands only during the breeding season. Communication among coatis is primarily achieved through a range of vocalizations, body postures, and scent marking.
Due to their adaptability, coatis can be found in various habitats, including rainforests, deciduous forests, and even deserts. However, habitat destruction and fragmentation pose significant threats to their populations. Efforts are being made to protect these charismatic creatures and preserve their natural habitats to ensure the survival of coatis for future generations.
The word "coatis" comes from the Portuguese term "coatí" which is derived from the Tupi language, an indigenous language spoken in Brazil. In Tupi, the word for "coatí" is "kwá'ti", which refers specifically to the South American coati (scientific name: Nasua nasua), a mammal native to the region. The word was later adopted into English, maintaining its original form.
