Exotic coatimundi found wandering streets of Middlesbrough

An exotic mammal usually found in the forests of South America has been found roaming around Middlesbrough.

A dog walker "got quite a shock" when he spotted the ring-tailed coatimundi in Abbeygate on Sunday morning.

Ring-tailed coatimundis are relatives of the raccoon Credit: RSPCA

The RSPCA are now urging the owner of the 'pet' to come forward and are advising they cannot be catered for in the domestic household.

The coatimundi wasn't injured and has been nicknamed Razzle by staff at the practise.

They say he was quite happy once he got some fruit to nibble on.

Razzle munching on a grapefruit Credit: RSPCA

The animal wasn't microchipped but the RSPCA expect he has escaped from nearby and are hopeful of finding his owner. If anyone recognises him, they can contact the appeals line on 0300 123 8018.

The RSPCA also say they urge potential owners to thoroughly research what an animal needs and before taking one on. Coatis are wild animals and the charity say providing for their needs is difficult in a home environment.

The coatimundi has been nicknamed Razzle by staff Credit: RSPCA

Ring-tailed coatimundis are relatives of the raccoon. They are native to South America where they live in forests and eat mainly invertebrates and fruit.