Japanese raccoon dog
Species of mammal / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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The Japanese raccoon dog (Nyctereutes viverrinus),[1] also known by its Japanese name tanuki (Japanese: 狸, たぬき),[2] is a species of canid endemic to Japan. It is one of two species in the genus Nyctereutes, alongside the common raccoon dog (N. procyonoides),[3] of which it was traditionally thought to be a subspecies (Nyctereutes procyonoides viverrinus).
Japanese raccoon dog | |
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In Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens | |
Scientific classification | |
Domain: | Eukaryota |
Kingdom: | Animalia |
Phylum: | Chordata |
Class: | Mammalia |
Order: | Carnivora |
Family: | Canidae |
Genus: | Nyctereutes |
Species: | N. viverrinus |
Binomial name | |
Nyctereutes viverrinus (Temminck, 1838) | |
Synonyms | |
Nyctereutes procyonoides viverrinus |
The Japanese raccoon dog has a smaller stomach and shorter fur of lesser insulation value than mainland raccoon dogs.[4] A rare, white colour type can also be found.[5]
Within Japanese folklore, Japanese raccoon dogs (tanuki) have had a significant role since ancient times. They are reputed to be mischievous and jolly, masters of disguise and shapeshifting but somewhat gullible and absent-minded. The animals have also been common in Japanese art, particularly as subjects for statues.