Raccoon
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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
During the events of Super Mario Sunshine, the Blue Coin Shop is run by two Tanooki, one older and one younger. Additionally, a Tanooki owns a small rowboat shack in Noki Bay. The boats can be rented for a price of 90,000 coins. However, 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 Smash Bros. Brawl
In Super Smash Bros. Brawl, one of the names that can be gotten from pressing the "RANDOM NAME" button is TNUKI, a reference to the Tanookis.
Super Paper Mario
In Super Paper Mario, the character Francis mentions that he would like a Tanooki Suit made with real Tanooki fur.
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.
