Also known as: Coons
Length ranges from 33-45 inches (84-104.5 cm), with weight between 7-20 lbs (3-9 kg). They have five fingers and toes on each hand and foot, and are described as stocky animals with short legs and small, rounded ears. Fur is gray with dark markings around the eyes and black bands on the tail; the belly and muzzle are lighter, feet darker. The tail is very bushy with coarse, medium-length fur.
Habitat & Range
Raccoons prefer brushy or wooded areas near streams, lakes or swamps but can also live near developed areas if food, water, and cover exist. Although woodlands are preferred, they have adapted well to human habitats. They are common throughout Texas and North America.
Life History
Raccoons are curious, unique, and intelligent creatures. They have excellent night vision and acute hearing. They are agile climbers, strong swimmers, and almost exclusively nocturnal. They sleep in tree dens during the day and may sleep for extended cold periods but do not hibernate. They are primarily solitary outside of breeding season. Diet includes fruits and nuts, insects and aquatic invertebrates, fish, small rodents, frogs, bird eggs, carrion and human garbage. They use their nimble fingers to feel stream bottoms for food and to open containers. Males mature sexually at 2 years, females at 1 year. Mating occurs from mid to late summer. Gestation lasts 60-74 days, producing up to four cubs. Ears and eyes open at 18-24 days; they can walk around by the time they are four to six weeks old. Weaned by three months but stay with mothers for about a year. Males do not help raise young. Lifespan is 10-15 years in the wild.
Status, Trends & Threats
Not in decline in most of Texas, though threats include malnutrition, diseases like rabies, and predation by humans, Coyotes and Bobcats.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name 'raccoon' mean?
Raccoon derives from the Algonquian word arakun, meaning 'he scratches with his hands.' American colonists dropped the 'a' in the 1700s.
Are raccoons dangerous?
Raccoons can carry diseases like rabies and may be aggressive if threatened. They are also preyed upon by Coyotes and Bobcats. It is best to observe them from a distance and not approach.
Do raccoons hibernate?
No, raccoons do not hibernate. They may sleep for extended cold periods but remain active throughout the year.
