Raccoons
Info
Raccoons are unusual for their thumbs, which (though not opposable) enable them to open many closed containers (such as garbage cans and doors). They are omnivores with a reputation for being clever and mischievous; their intelligence and dexterity equip them to survive in a wide range of environments and are one of the few medium to large-sized animals that have enlarged its range. Raccoons are omnivorous eating fruits, nuts, grains, insects, frogs, crayfish, bird eggs, and anything else available. Raccoons do not really wash their food, but usually obtain their food from lakes and streams. It is also a myth that raccoons lack salivary glands; this has been proven to be a folktale.
Reproduction
Raccoons do not live together as mated pairs. The males mate with as many females as possible. During the breeding season (February-March) females find a den. The male raccoon locates a female and, if she is willing, moves into her den for a short period of mating. Afterwards, the male resumes his wandering lifestyle. After a 63-day gestation period, 2-7 young are born with their eyes shut. Their eyes open in about 3 weeks. Their mother cares for the young until the fall when they leave on their own.
