Raccoon

Nature's bandit. The raccoon can be trapped in Massachusetts from November 1st through February 28th of the following year. One of the most distinguishing characteristics of the raccoon is the black mask across the eyes and bushy, ringed tail. Coloration varies with habitat, but tends to range from grey to reddish brown to buff. Weight varies with habitat and region, and can range from 10 to 30 pounds. Raccoons are capable of acheiving body masses made up of 50% body fat, but it is mostly raccoons in the northern parts of the range that become this fat.

    Raccoons are omnivorous, eating everything from berries and vegetables to fish and invertebrates. Lacking saliva glands, most raccoons live near a water source, be it a river, stream, or cattle trough. They are the largest carrier of rabies in Massachusetts, and also carry Raccoon roundworm.