Raccoon

Procyon cancrivorus

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Procyon insularis

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Procyon lotor

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:This article is about the broader raccoon genus. For the most familiar species, see Common Raccoon. For the animated television series see The Raccoons.

Related Topics:
Common Raccoon - Animated television series - The Raccoons

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Raccoons are mammals native to the Americas collectively grouped under the genus Procyon within the Procyonidae family. Raccoons are notable for their thumbs (although non-opposable) and their ability to open many closed containers and doors (such as garbage cans and cabinets). Raccoons are surprisingly intelligent omnivores with a reputation for slyness and mischief.

Related Topics:
Mammal - The Americas - Genus - Procyonidae - Thumb - Omnivores

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The Common Raccoon is the species that is best known by North Americans and Europeans; indeed, the term "raccoon" is quite frequently used without clarification as that species' name. Rarer species include several dwarf racoons native to the Caribbean islands and the Crab-eating Raccoon of the tropics.

Related Topics:
Common Raccoon - Caribbean - Crab-eating Raccoon

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The word "Raccoon" derives from the Algonquian word aroughcoune, "he who scratches with his hands". "Procyon" comes from the Latin term for "pre-dog;" this term is also used for the star Procyon.

Related Topics:
Algonquian - Latin - Procyon

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