Calvin was captured, illegally, as a juvenile in southwestern New Mexico in January of 1997 and transported to the El Paso area where he was raised as a family pet. A few months later he was placed in quarantine by El Paso County Animal Control when he scratched a child. Eventually, Cal was turned over to Chihuahuan Desert Wildlife Rescue. Because of his lack of foraging skills and human imprinting, Calvin was not deemed an animal suitable for release back into his habitat. The coati has an extensive range throughout much of Mexico. However, it barely enters Texas and is considered a threatened animal in this state. Biologists estimate there are only about 2000 coatis in the wild within the United States.

Warning:Wild animals do not make good pets. It may also be a violation of the law to take or possess wildlife in your area.