The raccoon, sometimes spelled racoon, also known as the common raccoon, North American raccoon, northern raccoon and colloquially as coon, is a medium-sized mammal native to North America. Raccoons are distinguished by a black mask across the eyes and bushy tail.
Fast Facts about Raccoon
1. The colouration of the raccoon varies with habitat, and ranges from grey to reddish brown to buff.
2. Raccoons have a stocky build and typically weigh from six to seven kilograms. Males are usually heavier than females. The body length ranges from 603 to 950 mm (2 to 3 ft)
Also Read: 10 Amazing Animal Facts (Rabbit)
3. They are omnivores (eat plants and animals) and like to eat insects, eggs, small mammals, fruit, berries, seed and garbage.
4. Raccoons are solitary (live on their own) and nocturnal creatures (they hunt at night).
5. Raccoons produce various sounds. They can hiss, purr, whistle, growl…
6. They are excellent swimmers and climbers.
7. Group of raccoons is called nursery or gaze.
Also Read: 10 Amazing Animal Facts (Fox)
8. Mating season takes place from January to mid March. Two months later, female will give birth to 3-4 babies. Their tails don’t have bands, and mask around eyes is still missing.
9. Mother is very protective and she will teach them how to survive and what to eat as soon they become ready to leave the burrow.
10. Average life span in the wild is 15 years, while they can live up to 20 years in captivity.
