Raccoon

The raccoon occurs throughout the state, except in the three northeast counties. The raccoon's antics and its appealing face make it a favorite of some and a villain to others--especially to someone whose cornfield has been raided. Sweet corn is a favorite food, though crayfish, frogs, insects, fruits, and bird eggs are staples in its diet.

Raccoons remain in partial hibernation during most of the winter. The animals often den together in small groups. One woman found 23 raccoons sharing an abandoned house in Swift County. Some raccoons may winter in wood duck boxes if the entrance hole is large enough to squeeze through.

With warming days in February, the males begin to search for mates. After a 63-day gestation period, the female has her litter, which numbers from three to six young. Tiny at birth, raccoons grow fast, eventually weighing 23 pounds or more at maturity. Some may even exceed 30 pounds in weight.

Raccoons are seldom seen in the wild, except in some Minnesota state parks and resorts where they are adept at raiding trash cans and picnic tables. Their tracks, however, can often be found along wetland edges. Look for the distinctive front footprint of the raccoon which resembles the palm print of an infant human.