Meet the Raccoon

Raccoon Facts

• Raccoons are native to North America and thrive in forests and cities alike.
• Their front paws have extremely sensitive touch, with many nerve endings.
• They often "wash" food in water, which heightens their sense of touch.
• The black mask may help reduce glare and improve night vision.
• They're mostly nocturnal and eat almost anything: fruit, insects, fish, and trash.
• They can rotate their hind feet to climb down trees headfirst.
• Studies show they can remember solutions to puzzles for up to three years.
• In the wild, most live only 2–3 years.
• They're listed as Least Concern, with a large and widespread population.