Raccoons

The raccoon (Procyon lotor) is a medium-sized mammal in the family Procyonidae. Native to North America, it has been introduced to parts of Europe and Asia and now occupies a wide range of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and urban areas. It is commonly found near water.

Adults have a distinctive facial mask, gray-brown fur, and a ringed tail. They are highly dexterous, with front paws capable of manipulating small objects. They are primarily nocturnal, though activity patterns shift with season and food availability. They forage widely, consuming fruits, nuts, insects, small vertebrates, eggs, and human leftovers.

Reproduction occurs in many regions once a year; breeding season typically in late winter to spring. Gestation is about 63 days, with litters usually 2–5 kits that remain with the mother for several months. Juveniles disperse in late summer to fall.

Raccoons are widespread and resilient but can bring conflicts in urban settings. They may carry diseases and parasites that can affect humans and pets, including rabies and Baylisascaris procyonis; however, risk is generally reduced with proper precautions such as securing trash and avoiding direct feeding. In many areas, populations are stable, and the IUCN Red List classifies the species as Least Concern.