File:Common raccoon near water - DPLA - 8b80da82c05af99dd903285a52394c3d.jpg

35 mm slide; color. Scientific Classification: Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Chordata; Class: Mammalia; Order: Carnivora; Family: Procyonidae; Genus: Procyon; Genus species: Procyon lotor. Animal characteristics: Head-Body Length: 55 cm; Weight: 5-8 kg; Identification: The common raccoon is grizzled gray and has a tail striped with brown and black rings. Its black facial mask makes this animal easily recognizable; Habitat: Wooded areas, swamps, urban areas; Diet: Omnivore: frogs, crayfish, birds, eggs, fruit, nuts, small rodents, insects, earthworms; Reproduction: The mating season is in January and February. Gestation lasts 63 days, after which 3-7 young are born. The mother will keep her offspring with her until the fall. In captivity, common raccoons can live for more than 12 years; Social Structure: Communal denning during the winter months is fairly common; Behavior: Although they don't hibernate, common raccoons are inactive during the winter. They usually live in ground dens rather than in trees; Status: No special status; Interesting Facts: This is the most common species of raccoon. It is also a widespread carrier of rabies.