Knowra Raccoon Raccoon The raccoon is a medium-sized North American mammal with a black facial mask, a ringed tail, and highly dexterous forepaws. It is nocturnal and adaptable, often living near people.
Procyonidae : The mammal family that includes raccoons, coatis, kinkajous, and olingos. Raccoons are the best-known members of this family, whose species share traits such as plantigrade feet.
Nocturnality : An activity pattern in which an animal is primarily active at night. Raccoons usually forage after dark, though they may be active by day.
Urban wildlife : Wild animals that live in or use cities and other developed areas. Raccoons are prominent urban wildlife because food and shelter are readily available near people.
Common raccoon : Procyon lotor, the widespread raccoon species native to North America. This is the species usually meant by the unqualified name raccoon.
Invasive species : A non-native organism that spreads and causes ecological, economic, or human-health harm. Introduced raccoons have established populations outside their native range, including in Japan and Europe.
Carnivora : The mammalian order containing cats, dogs, bears, seals, and their relatives. Raccoons belong to Carnivora despite eating a broad mix of animal and plant foods.
Tactile perception : The sensing of touch, pressure, and texture through the body. Raccoons rely heavily on sensitive forepaws when examining food and objects.
Human–wildlife conflict : Interactions between people and wildlife that cause costs or risks to either side. Raccoons raid bins, gardens, and buildings, creating familiar neighborhood conflicts.
Cozumel raccoon : A small raccoon species endemic to Cozumel Island off Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula. Its restricted island range contrasts with the common raccoon's broad distribution.
Seed dispersal : The movement of seeds away from parent plants, enabling plant reproduction and spread. By eating and later excreting fruit seeds, raccoons can move them across habitats.
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