Raccoon

A raccoon (Procyon lotor) is a medium-sized mammal native to North America. It is known for its distinctive black mask, a ringed tail, and its nimble, human-like paws. The word "lotor" in its scientific name means "washer," referring to its habit of handling food in water.

Raccoons have a robust body, short legs, and a long, bushy, ringed tail. Their coat is a grizzled salt-and-pepper gray, but their most notable feature is the black mask of fur around their eyes, which gives them a bandit-like appearance. Their front paws are highly sensitive and have five long, non-retractable fingers that they use to feel for food.

Raccoons are highly adaptable and are found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, urban areas, and suburban neighborhoods. They are omnivores with a diverse diet that includes insects, fruits, nuts, and small animals. They are also known for their scavenging habits and will eat food from garbage cans and pet food left outdoors.

Raccoons are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. They are solitary animals, but they may live in family groups. They are known for their intelligence and problem-solving skills, which allows them to thrive in human-populated areas.