Raccoons

Identifying Characteristics

• Stocky mammal
• 2 to 3 feet long
• Weigh 7 to 30 lb.
• Heavily furred
• Alternating light and dark rings around its tail
• Distinctively marked with a black “mask”

Native to North America and found throughout the United States, except parts of the Rocky Mountains and south western stares, such as Nevada, Utah, and Arizona

Found in Mexico, Canada, and northern-most regions of South America

During 20th century, species was introduced to other parts of the globe, and now has extensive presence in countries like German, Russia, and Japan

In the wild, life expectancy is 2 to 3 years. Its up to 20 years in captivity.

Prefer wooded areas near water and natural habitats.

Adapts well to urban and suburban environments.

• Omnivorous
• Mostly forage and feed at night
• All kinds of fruits, berries, nuts, acorns, corn, and other types of grain
• Diet will vary depending on availability
• Animal foods include crayfish, clams, fish, frogs, snails, insects, turtles, rabbits, muskrats, eggs and young of ground-nesting birds
• Sweet corn is particularly desirable
• Scavenge from garbage cans and compost piles
• Pet food left outside
• Bird feeders

No, they do not hibernate, but it can sleep in its den for weeks.

Active year-round, but take cover in dens during periods of severe winter weather.

Nocturnal – Mainly active at night, they are often present but may go undetected for some time.

• Young generally born in April or May, but earlier and later are not uncommon
• Litter size range from 3 to 6 young, averaging about 4
• Mating season falls anytime between January and June
• Family groups stay together for the first year
• Populations can become very large when availability of food and den sites

• Den in hollow trees, ground burrows, brush piles, rock crevices
• Often dens. In backyards, beneath decks, or in accessible buildings
• Attics, chimneys, and spaces beneath houses is also used as dens

• Common problems occur when looking for nesting sites in buildings
• Females may rip off shingles, fascia boards, or rooftop ventilators to get into the attic
• Once inside the attic, insulation on walls may be torn or misplaced
• Insulation on heating and air conditioning ducts may be ripped off and destroyed
• Ceilings may become stained with urine
• Uncapped chimneys are often used as den sites, as are spaces beneath porches and decks
• Damage to gardens is common, as they feed off of fruits and vegetables
• Damage to crops, especially sweet corn, usually occurs before harvest
• Damage to turf when looking for worms and grubs
• Raccoons are skilled fishers and will occasionally prey upon koi in backyard ponds
• Carry a number of diseases, such as rabies, and internal parasites