The raccoon is the nocturnal mammal known for its black facial mask and ringed tail. Its dark eye markings contrast with lighter fur around the muzzle, while alternating bands on the tail give it one of the most recognisable silhouettes in North American wildlife.
The familiar species is the common raccoon, Procyon lotor. It is native to North America but has also been introduced to parts of Europe and Japan. Raccoons are highly adaptable and can live in forests, wetlands, farmland, suburbs, and cities, provided they can find food and shelter.
Their dexterous front paws are especially important. Raccoons use them to manipulate food, open containers, climb, and investigate objects. They are primarily nocturnal and have an omnivorous diet that may include fruits, insects, eggs, small animals, and human refuse.
The ringed tail and mask can cause confusion with the ringtail, a smaller relative in the raccoon family. Ringtails have a much longer, more boldly striped tail and a more cat-like body. The classic bulky masked animal around campsites and garbage bins is the raccoon.