Also known as: Coon, Ringtail
Raccoon Fact Sheet Raccoons are known for their distinct black eye patches, giving them the appearance of wearing a mask, and their blackringed tail. Raccoons have slender legs contrasting with their large round body, pointed nose and round ears. When walking, the rear of their body is considerably higher than the front end. Raccoons have long, black-tipped hairs giving them a gray to black grizzled coloration. Their hair is darker on their backs and lighter on their bellies. Tracks: Front–1-1/2" L, 2" W Rear– 3" L, 1-1/2" W Total Length 24-37 inches Weight 10-30 pounds Fun Facts: Raccoons are capable of carrying several diseases that can be transmitted to people including leptospirosis, tularemia and rabies. The threat of rabies is the main reason why it is illegal to have a raccoon or a striped skunk as a "pet" in North Dakota.
Habitat & Range
Raccoons are found throughout North Dakota and are capable of using a wide variety of habitats including wetlands, riparian areas, prairies and woodlots. Raccoons are commonly found in abandoned buildings and urban areas. Breeding Season January-April Gestation Period 63 days Litter Size 1-7 (average 3-4) Social Aspects Raccoons are primarily solitary except during mating and rearing of off spring. However, raccoons will tolerate other raccoons within their home ranges.
Life History
Food: Raccoons are omnivorous and able to make do with almost anything as a food source. Major food items include insects, crayfi sh, frogs, fi sh, bird eggs, nuts, seeds (especially grains), acorns and berries.
Status, Trends & Threats
Raccoons are common throughout North Dakota and there is a year-round season.
Hunting Season
Year-round (closes Mar 31, reopens Apr 1 each year). Hunting with dogs: year-round
Frequently Asked Questions
Regulations for hunting Raccoon in North Dakota
Raccoon hunting in North Dakota is open year-round. Firearms, traps, air guns, and archery allowed. Night hunting with artificial light (red, green, or amber, max 6V) and night vision permitted. Hunting with dogs year-round. Cable devices on land: Nov 24 – May 10. No bag limit.
When is Raccoon hunting season in North Dakota?
Year-round (closes Mar 31, reopens Apr 1 each year). Hunting with dogs: year-round
What is the bag limit for Raccoon in North Dakota?
No limit (unlimited take)
What's another name for Raccoon?
Raccoon is also known as Coon, Ringtail in North Dakota.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | Hunting | Regulations | Season Dates | Year-round (closes Mar 31, reopens Apr 1 each year). Hunting with dogs: year-round | Link |
| North Dakota | Hunting | Regulations | Regulations | Raccoon hunting in North Dakota is open year-round. Firearms, traps, air guns, and archery allowed. Night hunting with a | Link |



