Rainforests in the Pacific Northwest: A Kinkajou's Unexpected Adventure

A small mammal indigenous to the rainforests of South America, a kinkajou was recently found climbing a highway pole in Washington state, highlighting the dangers of the illegal pet trade.

A small mammal indigenous to the rainforests of South America, a kinkajou was recently found climbing a highway pole in Washington state, highlighting the dangers of the illegal pet trade.

The nocturnal critters, also known as honey bears, were once made popular as an exotic pet by celebrities like Paris Hilton. However, they are not domesticated animals and can pose health risks to both humans and themselves.

Rainforests in the Pacific Northwest: A Kinkajou's Unexpected Adventure

The rescued kinkajou was seen peering around a wooden sign pole at a rest area in East Selah, Yakima County, according to a photo posted to Twitter on Monday by the Washington State Department of Transportation.

The agency said it wasn't sure if the kinkajou was dropped off there or escaped, but it has since been brought to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums for a comprehensive wellness exam at its animal hospital.

Rainforests in the Pacific Northwest: A Kinkajou's Unexpected Adventure

"We are awaiting the results of diagnostic testing, including comprehensive blood work, to get a complete assessment of his health," the zoo posted to Facebook along with a short video of the examination.

Head Veterinarian Dr. Karen said the young kinkajou is in fair health overall but is very thin, weighing only 2½ pounds. He has a good appetite, and staff is feeding him a full and healthy diet, the zoo said in the post.

Rainforests in the Pacific Northwest: A Kinkajou's Unexpected Adventure

"This young kinkajou's survival is a testament to the collaborative efforts of state wildlife law enforcement and the Zoo, highlighting the dangers of the illegal pet trade," the post added.

The zoo said that while kinkajous are not endangered, they are hunted for fur, meat, and the exotic pet trade, which threatens their wild population. Its skin is often used to make wallets and horse saddles.

Rainforests in the Pacific Northwest: A Kinkajou's Unexpected Adventure

Kinkajous live in tropical rainforests from southern Mexico through Brazil. They are small carnivores with prehensile tails, often mistakenly called primates, the zoo said.

The kinkajou has sandy yellow fur, a round head, large black eyes, and a short, pointed snout as well as short limbs. Mature kinkajous can weigh up to about 10 pounds and stretch to 52 inches in length. They feed on fruits, roots, shoots, nuts, and seeds.

Rainforests in the Pacific Northwest: A Kinkajou's Unexpected Adventure

"Despite their cuteness, kinkajous do not make good pets," the zoo said, although that hasn't stopped socialite Hilton from owning one.

The influencer and activist has been pictured in the past holding a kinkajou she called "Baby Luv." Baby Luv bit Hilton in the arm in 2006, prompting her to go to a hospital, where the wound was treated and given a tetanus shot.