Procyon lotor (raccoon) is native from southern Canada through the United States, Mexico, and parts of Central America. Introduced populations are established in Europe and Japan. The black facial mask, ringed tail, and highly mobile five-fingered forepaws are distinctive. Dense touch receptors in the paws allow the animal to examine food and objects with great precision, especially in shallow water.

Raccoons are mainly nocturnal and use forests, wetlands, farmland, suburbs, and cities. They eat fruit, nuts, grain, insects, crayfish, mollusks, eggs, and small vertebrates, adjusting rapidly to whatever is locally abundant. Dens occur in hollow trees, rock crevices, burrows, and buildings. Urban populations can reach high densities where shelter and discarded food are concentrated. Although often seen alone, females raise litters through their first season and some males form loose associations. Photographed in Panama City Panama where they will approach you for food.