Investor Presentaiton
Raccoons
(Procyon lotor)
RHODE ISLAND
FISH &
WILDLIFE
Raccoons are one of the most recognizable furbearers in urban and suburban
environments. They are widely distributed across North America, and can be
found almost anywhere suitable habitats exist. Their ringed tail and masked
face easily identifies them, and has also earned them the name "masked
bandit." Although they can be cute and cuddly looking, many people come to
regard them as a nuisance when they eat crops, or tear apart garbage.
Raccoons are an especially valuable furbearer species throughout the United
States.
Description
The raccoon (Procyon lotor) is a mammal that belongs to the Procyonidae family. The word “raccoon" was
translated into English from the native Powhatan term, aroughcun, recorded by Captain John Smith in
the Virginia Colony. The word was written down as part of his list of Powhatan words. The term has also been
identified as part of the Proto-Algonquian root, ahrah-koon-em, which means
"one who rubs, scrubs and scratches with its hands."
Adult raccoons are medium sized mammals that range from 18 to 28 inches in
length. The tail is usually between 8 and 12 inches long, with rings of black and
off-white encircling it. Adults usually weigh between 12 and 35 pounds. They
have black markings around their eyes, and a long pointed snout. Raccoons are
typically greyish brown in color, but can be quite variable.
Raccoon tracks are also relatively easy to distinguish. They will show a C-shaped
palm area, and have five digits on both front and hind feet. At the end of each
digit, a small dot will be seen. They have excellent dexterity and can manipulate
latches and lids off of trash cans and other containers. There are thousands of nerve endings in their front paws
and toes. Their feet also allow them to climb down a tree either backwards or face first.
Life History
Range/Habitat: Raccoons prefer wooded habitat adjacent to streams, ponds, or wetlands, but they have also
become well adapted to living in agricultural and suburban areas. Raccoons range from the East Coast of the
United States, all the way to the West Coast, but are absent from the area just east of the Rocky Mountains. They
range south into Mexico, and north into Canada.
Studies of raccoons have shown population densities that range from 1 to 15 animals per acre. Densities are
dependent on quality of habitat, including food availability. High population numbers in suburban and urban
environments are due to readily available food sources. Captive raccoons have been known to live up to 14
years, but the average lifespan of wild raccoons is usually no longer than 10 to 12 years.
Behavior: Raccoons are nocturnal, but can be active during the day, particularly at dawn and dusk. Raccoons are
also not true hibernators, but they may den up during extended cold periods. Hollow logs, trees, rock crevices,
ground burrows, or barns and buildings can all be used for den sites.
RIDEM/DFW Raccoons p. 1View entire presentation