The New International Encyclopædia/Kinkajou

KINK'AJOU (probably local native name), or. A South American tropical carnivore (Cercoleptes caudivovulus) of the raccoon family (Procyonidæ), formerly classed with lemurs on account of its woolly aspect, monkey-like dexterity, and strong prehensile tail. Its body is about 18 inches long, and its tail 12 inches; and it is clothed in soft fur, uniform yellowish-brown in color, giving it a lemur-like prettiness, which, with its tamability, makes the little animal an attractive pet. It feeds on the eggs and young of birds, small animals, insects, honey and bees, fruits, and the like; and uses its fore paws with a deftness almost equal to that of a monkey. It is found from Central Mexico to Southern Brazil.