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These are young Coatimundi. Wild animals live in the wild quite happily without the interference of humans. Domestic animals have been changed over a period of time to become useful to humans as resources. Some wild animals are tamed to a certain extent and kept as pets, which has done untold damage to their populations in the wild leading to serious endangerment for some species and near extinction for others, but that does not mean they are domesticated. Coatimundis are highly social animals. They are extremely intelligent and live in large groups. When they become sexually mature they can become extremely aggressive and are often abandoned by owners who cannot cope with a mature wild animal in a domestic situation. Coatimundis are often exploited by people who use them as a means to attract attention for panhandling or to sell their wares. The animals in this situation are often very seriously neglected, often abused terribly so that they will remain compliant and then either killed or abandoned when no longer useful. According to some specialist exotic animal groups "Unfortunately, the coatis' gregarious behavior makes them appealing to many interested in owning them as "pets". But, like so many animals, coatis are not domesticated and are not easily trained, so do not make ideal housemates." Info on Coatimundi

and "In contrast to dogs and cats, coatis have not been bred to blindly accept authority. They are naturally selfish and will more often than not ignore their owner's authority or commands. Coatimundi training is a difficult task. The small mammals will try to constantly improve their hierarchical status in the household, which implies aggressive confrontations. This can pose serious problems for a family with small children. Strangers will not be accepted easily, and neighbours are likely to face similar problems."

Carnivora - Coatimundi

The Humane Society of the United States says "Keeping wild and exotic animals as pets threatens public health and safety as well as animal welfare. Wild animals can attack, they can spread disease, and the average pet owner cannot provide the care they need in captivity. Help us keep wild animals in the wild!

From anacondas to bears to chimpanzees, it's simple as ABC: These are dangerous wild animals. It may come as a surprise that in some states they are legal as pets.

Even captive-bred wild animals have wild instincts, and smaller animals can attack, too. There's also the risk of diseases such as Herpes B virus and Salmonella.

Often bought as cuddly babies, when exotic pets become too much to handle they may be kept in small cages or even let loose-putting other wildlife at risk.

Help stop the trade in dangerous wild animals as pets. And if you want a pet, please visit a local shelter to find a domesticated pet suited to be a lifelong member of your family. "

Please help us to keep our wildlife in the wild. Please do not support the pet trade, do not have your photograph taken with exotic wild animals that are being kept as pets and if you care about wildlife support the important work of wildlife conservation organisations.