This appears to be a Ringtail, a nocturnal mammal native to the arid regions of the southwestern United States and Mexico. Often mistaken for a small cat or a ferret, Ringtails are actually members of the Procyonidae family, making them relatives of raccoons.

They are incredibly agile climbers, using their long, bushy, banded tails—which are often longer than their bodies—for balance. Their large eyes, protected by dark rings of fur, are adapted for excellent night vision, helping them hunt a varied diet of insects, small rodents, birds, and fruits. Despite their elusive nature, they are sometimes found near human settlements, especially older buildings or mines, due to their preference for rocky crevices and tree hollows as dens. Given their nocturnal habits, catching a glimpse of one during the day is relatively uncommon.