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At Iguazu Falls, you can commonly encounter coatis (known locally as “coaties” Spanish), which are members of the raccoon family and are native to the region.
Coatis are medium-sized mammals with long, bushy tails, pointed noses, and raccoon-like facial markings. They are typically brown with lighter undersides. They are curious and highly social animals, often seen in groups, especially in areas with a lot of human activity. Coatis are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, and they spend much of their time foraging for food.
Coatis are omnivores and have a varied diet. They eat fruits, insects, small animals, and even eggs. Their long, flexible snouts help them dig into the ground or tree bark to find insects and small invertebrates.
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Coatis do not normally seek conflict with people, but they are wild animals and may bite or scratch when frightened, cornered or attempting to take food. Never feed, touch or pose with a coati, and do not try to recover food directly from an animal
Coatis are notorious for their ability to steal food from unsuspecting tourists. They are quick and clever, and if they spot an opportunity, they may snatch food from tables or bags.
Coatis are found throughout the forests around Iguazu Falls, including both the Argentine and Brazilian sides of the park. They thrive in the dense, tropical rainforests of the area, where they can easily find food and shelter.
Coatis are not considered endangered, but their populations may face threats from habitat loss and human activity. They are protected within the national park.
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You are most likely to spot coatis near the park’s visitor areas, especially around the trails and near the waterfalls where food is more readily available. They are most active during the day, especially early in the morning and late afternoon, when they are out foraging.
Coatis are accustomed to seeing visitors and may approach people, picnic areas, tables, or benches in search of food. Although they may appear friendly, they are wild animals with sharp teeth and strong claws. They should never be touched, fed, surrounded, or encouraged to pose for photographs.
If a coati comes close, remain calm and slowly move away. Do not try to pet it, block its path, chase it, or corner it. Avoid sudden movements and never attempt to take food back from an animal. Keeping a respectful distance protects both visitors and wildlife.
Coatis have learned to associate backpacks, plastic bags, and food containers with an easy meal. They can open unsecured bags surprisingly quickly, especially when visitors leave them on the ground, beside a bench, or unattended on a table.
Keep these precautions in mind:
Feeding coatis—even unintentionally—encourages them to approach people more aggressively and disrupts their natural diet and behavior.
Children should always remain close to an adult when coatis are present. Because of their height and natural curiosity, young children may try to touch an animal or hold food at the coati’s level.
Adults should carry the family’s snacks and make sure children do not feed, chase, crouch beside, or extend their hands toward a coati. Food and drink should also be removed from open stroller trays. Explain beforehand that seeing a coati is a wonderful wildlife experience, but it must be enjoyed from a safe distance.
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Coati bites are uncommon when visitors follow park rules, but any bite or scratch from a wild animal should be taken seriously.
Move away safely and immediately inform a park ranger or member of staff. Wash the affected area thoroughly with plenty of soap and running water for at least 15 minutes. Seek prompt medical attention, even if the wound appears minor, so a healthcare professional can assess infection risk, tetanus protection, and whether any additional preventive treatment is required.
Do not attempt to capture or follow the animal. If possible, remember the location, approximate time, and circumstances of the incident so park personnel can respond appropriately.
No. Coatis and raccoons are related because both belong to the Procyonidae family, but they are different animals.
The South American coati found around Iguazu Falls has a long, flexible snout, relatively long legs, and a long ringed tail that is often carried upright while walking. Coatis are frequently active during daylight hours, and females and young animals are commonly seen moving in social groups.
Raccoons belong to a different genus and generally have a shorter snout, a stockier body, and a more prominent dark “mask” around the eyes. They are also more commonly associated with nocturnal activity. The resemblance is real, but referring to an Iguazu coati simply as a raccoon is biologically inaccurate.
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Coatis are a fascinating part of the wildlife at Iguazu Falls. While they may seem friendly and curious, it’s important to remember that they are wild animals and should be respected from a distance. Avoid feeding them, and appreciate their unique role in the ecosystem of the rainforest.
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