Raccoon
Eats
Raccoons are opportunistic omnivores, eating fruits, nuts insects, small mammals, birds' eggs and nestlings, reptile eggs, frogs, fish, aquatic invertebrates, worms, and garbage. Most food is obtained on the ground or near water.
Lives
Forests along edges of streams or other bodies of water, but are increasingly being found in urban environments.
Behavior
Communicates by using purring, growling, hissing, and whistling. Sometimes submerges food to 'wash' them in captive raccoons.
Description
Raccoons are adorable animals known for their bandit-like black eye markings and thick gray coats. Their tails have alternating black and gray stripes, making them easily recognizable. One of their coolest features is their flexible front paws with five toes, allowing them to grasp and manipulate objects like food and doorknobs. Their long, bushy tails help them balance while climbing trees or swimming, showcasing their clever and resourceful nature!
Did you Know?
"Raccoon" is an adaptation of a native Powhatan word meaning "animal that scratches with its hands" .
How can I Help?
Listed as least concerned due to it's wide range and increasing population in some parts of their range, but there are threats that are decreasing their numbers in more rural areas including hunting, trapping, and poisoning.