Raccoon

Natural Habitat

Highly adaptable, found in diverse environments including woodlands, urban areas, suburban neighborhoods, and agricultural lands. They often live near water sources.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous, feeding on a wide variety of foods including fruits, nuts, berries, insects, eggs, small mammals, fish, and amphibians. They are opportunistic feeders and will readily consume human-provided food and garbage.

Behavior Patterns

Raccoons are nocturnal and solitary, though they sometimes forage in groups. They are known for their 'washing' behavior, where they douse their food in water before eating, though this is related to tactile exploration rather than hygiene. They are excellent climbers and can be quite agile.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include property damage (raiding garbage, nesting in attics, damaging gardens), and they can carry diseases transmissible to humans and pets, such as rabies, roundworm, and distemper. Benefits include natural pest control and seed dispersal.

Identified on: 6/26/2025