Poes (po-ez) are a type of small mammal found in the forests of North and South America. They are related to the more common raccoon, but have a longer snout and tail. Poes are nocturnal animals, meaning they are most active at night. During the day, they sleep in trees or burrows.
Poes eat mostly insects, but will also eat berries and other fruits. They have sharp claws that help them climb trees and catch their prey. Poes are good swimmers and can even climb fish out of the water!
Poes mate in late winter or early spring. After a gestation period of about two months, the female gives birth to two to five babies, called “kits”. The kits stay with their mother until they are old enough to fend for themselves – usually around six months old.
Poes are not considered endangered at this time, but their populations could decline if habitat loss continues in North and South America.