Common Raccoon

Procyon lotor

The mischievous raccoon, famous for its nighttime raids on trash cans, can find a home most anywhere, from woodlands to suburbs. Its secret to success lies in its intelligence, agile hands, and ability to eat a variety of foods. Raccoons can be vicious predators on small animals, from chickens to kittens.

Look For : A gray nocturnal animal with a black face mask and a bushy ringed tail.

Length : Body 16-21" long, tail 8-16" long; 12-48 lb.

Habitat : Woodlands, riverbanks, wetlands, and suburbs.

Range : Southern Canada and south through most of U.S.