Raccoon
Template:Articleabout Template:Species-infobox
The Tanooki are a race of rather plump raccoon dog-like creatures, found primarily on Isle Delfino. Though only three are shown, it appears that Tanookis work as vendors for a living and the race itself does not appear to populate Isle Delfino in as large numbers as the other races, such as Piantas and Nokis.
History
Super Mario Sunshine
In Super Mario Sunshine, the Boathouse in Delfino Plaza is run by two Tanooki, one older and one younger. Additionally, another Tanooki owns a small rowboat shack in Noki Bay. According to a sign near the shop, the boats can be rented for 90,000 coins, though the owner states that Mario is allowed to use them for free.
Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga
In Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga, Mario and Luigi encountered the Tanoombas, a race of Tanooki-Goomba hybrids. In the game's sequel, Mario & Luigi: Partners in Time, Shroob-like versions of the Tanoombas appeared. These creatures were named Tashroobas. Tanoombas also reappeared in Partners in Time.
Super Paper Mario
In Super Paper Mario, the character Francis mentions that he would like a Tanooki Suit made with real Tanooki fur.
Names in Other Languages
Trivia
- The Tanooki are actually based on an animal known in Japanese as the "Tanuki", or in English as the "Japanese Raccoon Dog." It is often said to be a shape-shifting trickster in Japanese folklore.
- The design of Tanookis from Super Mario Sunshine was likely modeled after the Tanuki Statues all across Japan; the sun hat, shirt/coat, tail, and sash are all trademarks of the statues.
