5181-Raccoon Standing 45cmL.

Raccoon

Description The raccoon is a fuzzy animal characterized by its black mask around its eyes and bushy tail. They look cuddly and are about as big as dogs. Raccoons can be found in the forests, prairies, marshes, and cities of North and Central America, Japan, and Europe. They can be considered as very adaptable creatures that have the ability to live in various habitats and climates. They usually build their dens in trees, fallen logs, caves, attics, barns and other man-made locations. Moreover, these animals are classified as omnivorous and their diet typically consists of crayfish, mice, frogs,insects, eggs, plants, and fruits. Female raccoons normally give birth to 1- 7 cubs, which spend their first two months living in a tree hole. After that, the mother and the cubs move down to the ground for the young ones to explore. Furthermore, raccoons spend most the winter season asleep in their den.

Status According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, the pygmy raccoon is classified as Critically Endangered while other species of raccoons are not. Some of the threats that these animals face include hunting, poisoning, and trapping for pelt that can be made into muffs, coats, and other items.