Raccoon Report

Raccoons are truly amazing creatures. Here are some facts about them. Raccoons climb very easily, and are not bothered by a drop of 35 to 40 feet.  Both captive and wild raccoons have been known to live up to 16 years. However, the species' life expectancy in the wild is only 1.8 to 3.1 years, depending on the local conditions in terms of traffic volume, hunting, and weather severity. It is not unusual for only half of the young born in one year to survive until their first birthday. There are seven species of raccoon, five of which live on tropical islands.  Raccoons can swim as fast as 3.0 mph and are able to stay in the water for several hours.  The raccoon has short legs compared to its own body, so it is not able to run fast or to jump far. Raccoons are extremely adaptable, being found in many kinds of habitats and easily living near humans. Raccoons are considered the most omnivorous animals on the planet! They are very intelligent. In studies, raccoons were able to open 11 of 13 complex locks in less than 10 tries and had no problems when the locks were rearranged or turned upside down, also they can distinguish boxes containing two or four grapes from those containing three. Raccoons are commonly associated with washing their food. Their Latin name, Lotor, means "the washer." People sometimes keep young raccoons as pets, because they are curious and intelligent. Once grown, however, raccoons can be quite destructive in and around homes. I hope you enjoyed these facts!