I’D LIKE TO KNOW

Q

Can you please tell me the name of the animal indigenous to Mexico that looks a bit like a raccoon? Miss P.L., Liverpool.

A

The animal you refer to is a coati. The white-nosed coati and the Cozumel Island coati are both found in Mexico. They have elongated snouts that turn up a little at the tip and their bushy tails are as long as their bodies. The female of the species live in groups known as bands, while the male lives a more solitary lifestyle. They eat small mammals and reptiles, as well as fruit, nuts and grubs. The coati are given legal protection in New Mexico as they are classified as an endangered species.

Q

I enjoy watching the television show “Birds Of A Feather”. Are the two stars who appear as sisters in the show siblings in real life?

Mrs D.M.S., Canada.

A

No, the actresses are not related, though I can understand why you may have thought this as the cine clip shown to accompany the series shows two young girls with similar colouring as the stars. Linda Robson and Pauline Quirke, who play Tracey and Sharon, do have a great on-screen dynamic and they have been great friends for many years. They are also ably assisted by the wonderful Lesley Joseph, who plays Dorien.

Q

What is the style of cooking in which meats are placed in a sealed plastic bag and put in hot water?

Mrs J.K., Carnoustie.

A

This method of cooking is known as sous vide and is said to help ensure meat is cooked evenly throughout. The French term means under vacuum.