Raccoon

Procyon lotor

You’ve probably seen the “masked bandit” skulking around human neighborhoods at night, but raccoons are quite at home in the reserve, too. They hunt aquatic prey in the shallows and creeks, using their sensitive, hand-like front paws to feel around for shellfish. A raccoon is easy to recognize, even from a distance, by its hunched, loping stride and bushy, banded tail.

Fun Fact:
Raccoons normally amble along at a leisurely pace, but if necessary they can run at 15 mph.

What’s for Lunch:
Shellfish, frogs, insects, rodents, eggs, fruits, nuts, and berries

Where’s Home:
Under a tangle of fallen trees, in a culvert, or in a neighboring backyard woodpile