Interesting Types of Raccoons Found in North America

If you asked anyone, they could easily identify what a raccoon looks like.  This is because most raccoon species have the same distinctive features, such as the striped tail and “mask-like” stripe across their eyes.  An interesting fact is there are many different types of raccoon species in North America!  If you take a closer look, you will see the subtle differences among each unique raccoon family.  Read on to learn the different features of various raccoon species and how to spot them in the United States.

Ring Tail Raccoon

Ring tail raccoons are native to the Southwest regions of the United States.  They are commonly spotted in Arizona and surrounding states with similar climates.  Ring tail raccoons, or Bassariscus astutus, are often times referred to as Miner’s Cats and Ring Tailed Cats and are Arizona’s state mammal.  They are very small, about the size of a large squirrel, but still very similar looking to the common raccoon.  They are quick and nimble, using their retractable claws to climb head first down trees and cliffs.  They typically live in hollow dens, inside trees, and other dark secretive places.  They are very timid and keep hidden away most of the time.  Their diet consists of insects, fruit, lizards, rodents, and other small invertebrates.

Procyon Lotor

Also known as the common raccoon, the Procyon lotor is our stereotypically idea of what a raccoon should look like.  It is a medium sized mammal with a gray-ish brown coat and striped tail.  Their distinctive black “mask” across their face is their most famous feature.  They are omnivores, eating everything from insects to small crayfish and invertebrates.

White-Nosed Coati

White-nosed Coati, or Nasua narica, are also found in the Southwest, particularly Arizona and New Mexico.  These are an especially interesting species of raccoon due to their unique features and characteristics.  They have a long and flexible snout that allows them to dig in the ground for worms and other insects for food.  They eat everything from nuts and berries to snakes and lizards.  Unlike common raccoons, Coati are diurnal, meaning they are most active in the morning and afternoons.  They are a special and unique member of the raccoon species.

For more raccoon facts and information, call Indiana Raccoon Removal today!  We are DNR licensed raccoon control specialist with over 20 years of experience in the raccoon removal industry.  We are experts when it comes to raccoons.  Call us at 317-535-4605 for information about our raccoon removal services in Indianapolis, IN.