Raccoons the masked mammals have certain interesting biological traits and other interesting abilities. Some of them have been listed below:
This black mask over the eyes of the raccoons is a very distinguishing characteristic. One assumption behind this marking is that, just like that of an athlete, it is believed to help reduce glare and increase its night vision.
The eyes of the raccoons have a tapetum lucidum structure that reflects light and allows them to see clearly in the dark. Whenever a bright light falls directly into their eyes, they shine red.
The word raccoon has been derived from a Powhatan word meaning “animal that uses its hands to scratch.”
Although you may notice raccoons moving around at a slow pace, they can actually run at speeds of up to 15 miles per hour, for a short span.
Raccoons love trees, and they are an expert at climbing. They can even climb down a tree head-first.
This means they stay awake and are active at night.
Raccoons eat almost anything like acorns, leaves, worms, frogs, turtles, snakes, squirrels, etc. In urban areas, they survive on garbage.
These mammals have quick learning skills. They have the ability to memorize things and also differentiate different symbols.
In the winter, raccoons spend a lot of time sleeping. They don’t hibernate, they store fat in their body in the fall season that allows them to sleep in their dens for about a week when the weather is really cold.
The front paws of raccoons have four times more sensory receptors than their back paws, which is similar to the hands and feet of humans and this makes them extra sensitive.
