The largest of the procyonid family, the raccoon, along with 22 subspecies, is a medium-sized mammal native to North America.

Scientific Name – Procyon lotor

Classification – Procyon

Gender Names – Male – boar; Female – sow; Baby – cub

Collective Noun – Nursery, gaze

Length/Size – 41-71cm (16-28in)

Weight – 3.5-9kg (7.7-19.8lbs)

Top Speed – Varies between subspecies

Life Expectancy – 2 – 3 years (in the wild), but varies between subspecies

Mating Season – Varies between subspecies

Gestation Period – 63 – 65 days

Special Features – Black mask on face; hands and feet are very agile

Social Structure – Varies between subspecies

Geographical Distribution – Varies between subspecies

Natural Habitat – Deciduous and mixed forests, mountainous areas, coastal marshes, and urban areas

Conservation Status – Least Concern

Diet – Berries, fruits, nuts, grains, vegetables, insects, eggs, poultry, rats, squirrels, small livestock, birds, fish, snakes, crawfish, worms, frogs, mollusks, pet food, carrion, and human garbage

Predators – Bobcats, coyotes, cougars, domestic dogs, eagles, large owls