As I walk through the woods or drive on back roads, I try to check tree cavities hoping to see an occasional Eastern Screech Owl, Raccoon, or any other tree dwelling animal.  Raccoons are probably my favorite mammal to find in tree cavities.  Although they can be a vicious animal, they are one of the cutest to see.  This is a small collection of my favorite Raccoon photos I made.

This Raccoon was sitting deep in a tree cavity where it was dark so I turned my radio up loud and it decided to take a closer look.  I guess it likes Garth Brooks.

Raccoon

While a normal Raccoon wouldn't attack a person, they will “bluff” if they feel threatened or cornered.  Last fall, I was looking for White-tailed Deer during the rut and this Raccoon came walking down the hill towards me.  It was pretty far away when it saw me and scurried up the tree.

Raccoon

Raccoons will eat both plants and other animals. This includes fruits, berries, nuts, fish, frogs, mussels, crayfish, insects, turtles, mice, rabbits, muskrats and bird eggs. 

It is a myth that raccoons wash their food.  What they’re doing when they wet and rub an object is “seeing” it; it’s thought that water contact increases a raccoon’s sense of touch.  In other words, touch is as important a sense as hearing, smell, and sight.

I found this young Raccoon digging in a small, fresh water spring.

Raccoon

Raccoons are common carriers of rabies, roundworms and leptospirosis.  Just because you see one in the daylight, doesn't mean it's sick.  A general rule is to not approach a Raccoon at any time. Just enjoy them from a distance.

Raccoon

In late June of this year, I saw three Raccoon kits climbing on a tree.  It was getting dark but with the high sensitivity capabilities of the Canon EOS 1DX MKII, I managed a couple photos.

Raccoon

The black markings that fall across the Raccoon's eyes often make them look mischievous.  That black fur actually works like the black patches athletes wear to absorb light that can obstruct their vision.  At night, when raccoons are most active, less peripheral light makes it easier for them to perceive contrast in objects, which is essential for seeing in the dark.

Raccoon

After a long night of hunting, it's good to find a comfortable tree to hang out and relax.

Raccoon

Thanks for hanging out with me and checking out some of my favorite Raccoon photos.

Take Care,
Dan