These cute, ring-tailed and masked critters are easily recognizable and are native to North America. In South Carolina, raccoons prefer coastal marsh living, with populations diminishing a bit through the midlands and Upstate.

Raccoons are omnivorous, eating both plants and animals. Their favorite foods include crayfish, turtles, clams, snails, nuts, berries, and salamanders, but these brainy bandits will also plunder trash cans with wild abandon. One of the species’ numerous nicknames is ‘trash can panda.'

Yes, they are very clever and intelligent, with phenomenal problem-solving skills. In captivity, studies have shown that they can recall how to solve puzzles three years after they first encountered them. Raccoons are also known for their dexterity and have sensitive paws that enable them to pick locks and open doors. 

Their overall flexibility, along with sharp claws and back feet that can pivot, make them very talented tree climbers, enabling them to descend headfirst. Primarily nocturnal, raccoons will venture out during the day, especially when raising their babies (kits) or when food is scarce.

Raccoons seem to be fastidious creatures, grooming themselves frequently like cats, and often washing their food before eating, although it’s thought they do that to soften their paws and increase tactile sensitivity. Their charming black mask is thought to reduce glare, potentially improving their night vision.

Raccoons usually den in hollow trees, rock crevices, and ground dens. In fall and early winter, the youngsters will venture out on their own. Their fur will thicken into a heavy winter coat and they will eat as much as they can find to fatten up for winter.