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The dental formula of Bassariscus astutus is = 40.

The ringtail is buff to dark brown in color with pale underparts. Ringtails have a pointed muzzle with long whiskers resembles that of a fox (which is appropriate in that its name means ‘clever little fox’) and its body resembles that of a cat. These animals are characterized by a long black and white "ringed" tail with 14–16 stripes, which is the about the same length of its body. The claws are short, straight, and semi-retractable, and are perfect for climbing.

Smaller than a house cat, it is one of the smallest extant procyonids (only the smallest in the olingo species group average smaller). Its body alone measures 30 – and its tail averages 31 – from its base. It typically weighs around 0.7 to 1.5 kg. The dental formula of Bassariscus astutus is  = 40.

Ringtails are primarily nocturnal, with large eyes and upright ears that make it easier for them to navigate and forage in the dark. It uses its long tail for balance, as it is an adept climber. The rings on its tail 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.

Ringtails have occasionally been hunted for their pelts, but the fur is not especially valuable.