Opossums ( Didelphis virginiana) have white to gray coloration in their fur, grow to the size of housecats and weigh around 10 pounds (Figure 3). While extremely harsh weather will cause them to remain in their dens, raccoons do not hibernate. Raccoons are omnivores, enjoying a diet ranging from eggs, carrion, food scraps, corn, crayfish, bird seed, worms, amphibians, pet food and more. Despite their size, raccoons are exceptional climbers, able to scale trees, chimneys, and downspouts. Raccoons are very strong and have tremendous dexterity in their front paws. Raccoons usually need only a 4- to 6-inch diameter hole to enter. Raccoons have been known to tear through a shingled roof to establish a den in an attic. Raccoons do not construct their own dens but will use abandoned dens, hollow trees, crawl spaces, storm drains, attics, and chimneys (Figure 2). The family unit breaks up with the new mating season. Females remain with their young throughout the summer and fall. Males do not assist in rearing young and may kill any young encountered. Nine weeks later, females give birth to 2-5 young. Mating behavior is quite active and includes much screeching and growling. On rare occasions, raccoons weigh up to 50 pounds. Their weight can vary dramatically as they fatten up in preparation for winter, but they usually weigh 7-35 pounds. The word “raccoon” is derived from Native American words “arakum” or “aracoun,” meaning “he scratches with his hands.” Adult raccoons ( Procyon lotor) typically are 26-40 inches long (nose to tip of tail). Raccoons, with their black bandit mask and black- and brown-banded tail, are well known to Nebraskans (Figure 1). Non-professional screenings also may become packed with snow or ice thereby forcing toxic exhaust gases back into the home. Figure 7.Ě raccoon made a home in this chimney after breaking through this “home-made” chimney screening.
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