- Comments:
The name raccoon is derived from the Algonquin Indian word
"arathkone" meaning "one who can scratch with their hands." Northern
raccoons are noted for "washing" their food in water. Most people recognize them
by their black mask and ringed tail. They are intelligent and extremely curious. Their
dens are located in hollow trees, cavities below rock ledges, under old farm buildings and
in chimneys. They forage alone during the night, often within a square mile. Sows bear
litters of 3-7 kits in the spring and raise them alone. In the wild they live up to six
years.
- Distribution:
Northern raccoons range from South America to southern Canada. They are found in
woodlands, both rural and urban, throughout Kansas. They are usually more abundant near
agricultural areas.
- Food:
Northern raccoons are omnivores with more than half of their diet being plant
matter. They eat fruits, berries, nuts, grains, insects, fish, frogs, small turtles,
crayfish, snails, mussels, mice, birds and eggs. They also raid garbage cans.
Other Kansas
Carnivores
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