Tanooki Mario

Tanooki Mario is a form of Mario or Luigi in Super Mario Bros. 3 when he obtains a Tanooki Suit. When they have this form, they will look like Tanookis and turn into a Statue Mario, in addition to temporarily flying. It is an improved version of Racoon Mario. When Tanooki Mario is Statue Mario, he cannot be hurt and if he becomes Staue Mario in the air, he can slam down like a Thwomp. This can destroy certain enemies and trigger switches. One setback is that Statue Mario cannot move. He can also temporarily fly when the Speed Gauge is full and jump.

Not to be confused with actual Tanooki, which are a Species.

Trivia
If Mario beats an Airship like this, the King will say:

"Thank you, kind Raccoon. Please tell me your name."