The kinkajou is an arboreal member of the raccoon family that inhabits extensive forested areas of Central and South America and is found up to elevations of 2,500 m. Its body length and tail length are approximately equal, and it has a prehensile tail; its ankles rotate, an adaptation for moving through trees. It is primarily frugivorous, with figs being an especially important resource; it also eats flowers, nectar, and insects, and thus functions as a seed disperser and pollinator. It is largely nocturnal, rests in cavities during the day, and occurs alone or in small groups. Gestation lasts about 98–120 days and usually results in a single offspring; breeding tends to occur year-round. Local declines have occurred from deforestation and hunting, but the species as a whole is assessed as Least Concern.