Raccoons (Procyon lotor) are a mammal native to North America typical having a gray- brown color with its black its facial mask (black color around the eyes). Normally very rare but in some cases may be white or white light brown in color (leucistic / leucism, the partial loss of all types of pigmentation, including carotenoids – NPS).Being the largest of the procyonid family with weights averaging between 8-15 pounds. Raccoons are native to Florida and typically in the wild live around 2 to 3 years. They are an opportunistic and omnivorous, raccoons have a varied diet. Common foods can be fruits, acorns, nuts, crustaceans, grains, fish, small insects, turtle and duck eggs. They are also very well known for raiding garbage cans, crops, chicken coops, and any kind of pet food you may have or leave outside.
- Raccoon (Procyon lotor)
- Native animal to Florida
- Lifespan in the wild 2-3 years and up to 20 years when in captivity
Common Diseases
Raccoon Rabies: Raccoons can carry rabies. The most common mode of rabies viral transmission is through the bite of an infected animal. If you believe you or someone else may have been exposed to rabies from an animal bite, you need to contact your health care provider or emergency services immediately.
Roundworm: Raccoons are primary carriers of roundworm that can be transmitted to others from raccoon feces. Roundworm will normally not cause any issues for the raccoon, however while not a common problem for them it can be very dangerous to other mammals, this even includes a risk to humans. A person can become infected if they come into contact with an item that has been contaminated with raccoon feces. If you believe you or someone else may have been exposed, contact your health care provider immediately.
Report a sick, injured, or dead raccoon, opossum, squirrel, or fox: https://myfwc.com/research/health/mammal/
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Wildlife Health: https://myfwc.com/research/wildlife/health/
FWC: Living with Raccoons – Raccoon (Procyon lotor)
Cover photo by Jordan Rushton on Pexels.com