The ringtail (Bassariscus astutus) is an arboreal (i.e. tree dwelling) small mammal and an excellent climber. A relative to the raccoon, these little fellas can rotate their hind feet 180 degrees which allows them to descend from trees, rocks, and cliffs head-first and without the use of their claws. Ringtails have also been documented performing other cool mountaineering moves such as chimney stemming, ricocheting, and power leaps.

Artwork by Melissa Jones. Fact contributed by Adrian Perez.

Source:

Trapp, G.R., 1972. Some anatomical and behavioral adaptations of ringtails, Bassariscus astutus. Journal of Mammalogy, 53(3), pp.549-557.