They forage exclusively at night, feeding on mice, birds and insects. They are slim enough to hunt woodrats in dens. Frequently they hunt in pairs and in autumn forage as family groups. Ringtails have efficient kidneys and may not need to drink, thriving instead on the moisture in their prey. Three or four blind, nearly naked young are born in May or June.
Development is rapid, however, and the young are weaned at about five weeks of age.