A raccoon is a medium-sized mammal native to North America

A raccoon is a medium-sized mammal native to North America, known for its distinctive black mask around the eyes, grayish fur, and ringed tail.

The scientific name for a raccoon is Procyon lotor. They are omnivorous, meaning they eat both plants and animals, and are well-known for their cleverness and dexterity, often using their front paws to manipulate objects. Raccoons are nocturnal creatures, typically active at night, and they are skilled climbers, spending a good portion of their time in trees. They are also capable swimmers and are commonly found near water sources. Their diet consists of various items, including fruits, nuts, insects, fish, and small mammals or birds. Raccoons have a reputation for being opportunistic and can often be found rummaging through trash cans in urban and suburban areas in search of food. They are part of the Procyonidae family, which includes animals like coati, kinkajou, olingos, and the lesser known crab-eating raccoon.