Geographic range and origin: The northern raccoon was originally found across the US (except parts of Montana, Wyoming, Utah, and Nevada) and Mexico. But is now found in Germany, Japan, and parts of the Middle east
Photo obtained via Wikimedia Commons
Posted by: Roke
Habitat: Raccoons are found in a wide rage of habitats across their range.
Description: Northern raccoons are mainly grey with a ringed tail( a very defining trait, can be black or brown rings)have a mask like pattern around their eyes and muzzle. Raccoons are normally about 2 1/2 ft long and up to 24 lbs.
The photo above is of a raccoon at Selu conservancy, Showing the ringed tail mentioned in thee description above. (Photo by- RU Phenology 481 class)
The photo above is of a raccoon at Selu conservancy. Showing the black mask listed in the description above. (Photo by- RU Phenology 481 class)
Reproduction: Northern raccoons breed once a year between January and June, and males will extend there territory t breed with more females and females may breed with more than one male(polygynandrous). Raccoons reproduce sexually, have a gestation period of 65 days, and have litters of 2-5 kits .
Two baby raccoons in a snag. Photo obtained from Wikimedia commons
originally posted by- Patti Lynch, Mystic Ranger District Wildlife Biologist
Conservation status: Relatively common, widespread and abundant throughout its natural range
Ecological importance: Raccoons fill an important role in the ecosystem by spreading seeds and are important scavengers.
Cultural importance or uses: Raccoon skins have been an important part of american culture, they were once farmed, hunted with hounds, and trapped for there fur, this is the reason for their presence in continents outside of North America. They have recently started to be viewed as pets and are becoming more and more common across their home range. In urban area's in their native range and in ares that they are not native to (Germany, Japan, and the middle east) raccoons are now regarded as nuisance animal because they are opportunist and will eat anything and live anywhere.
Raccoon being a nuisance.
From Wikimedia commons
Originally posted by- Steve from Washington DC