Japanese Raccoon Dog
The Japanese raccoon dog (Nyctereutes viverrinus), also called the tanuki, is a species of canid that is endemic to Japan. It is one of two species in the genus Nyctereutes, alongside the common raccoon dog (N. procyonoides), of which it is considered to be a subspecies by some taxonomic authorities.
In Japan, raccoon dogs have had a significant role in Japanese folklore since ancient times. They are reputedly mischievous and jolly, masters of disguise and shapeshifting, but somewhat gullible and absent-minded. The animals are common in Japanese art, particularly as statues.
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