Species guide

Raccoon

Can carry disease

Procyon lotor

Raccoon

What does Raccoon look like?

A stocky, grizzled-gray mammal with a black 'bandit' mask across the eyes and a bushy tail ringed black-and-gray. Mostly nocturnal, with a hunched, ambling walk.

Is Raccoon dangerous?

A major rabies carrier, and its droppings can hold a roundworm harmful to people. Never approach, feed, or handle one — especially a raccoon that's active in daylight or acting tame or aggressive.

What should I do about Raccoon?

Secure trash and pet food. If one gets into your home or is behaving oddly, call animal control rather than handling it, and keep pets' rabies shots current.

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