“Raccoon” comes from an Algonquin Indian (Roanoke) word (arakumen) meaning, “he who scratches with his hands”. This aptly describes the whole Family, which use their forepaws the way a person uses their hands. Living mainly in forests, members of the Raccoon Family have also long tails for gripping tree limbs.
The most notable members of the Raccoon Family are Coatis, Raccoons, and Ringtails. Coatis are the most social of this Family. Depending on their moods, Coatis snort, grunt, or scream at their friends. The name “Coati” comes from the Tupian Indian words for cua (belt) and tim (nose) because Coatis sleep with their noses tucked into their stomachs.
Raccoons are known for their ability to solve difficult problems. Because of this, They have thrived among humans. Unfortunately for people, Raccoons are also carriers of rabies.
Ringtails have a ringed bushy tail as long as their bodies, hence their name. Gold miners once used Ringtails to hunt for Rats in the mines. Called the “Miner’s Cat”, They are better mousers than most Cats.
Other members of this Family are Olingoes and Kinkajous. Olingoes, which are easily confused with Kinkajous, seldom leave their tree homes. They also have softer fur. Unfortunately for Olingoes, their tropical evergreen forests are being chopped down at alarming rates.
The larger Kinkajous use their tails as an extra hand. Often seen at night, Kinkajous will feed at the same tree as Olingoes and Opossums. Unlike other members of the Raccoon Family, They have a scent gland on their chest rather than on their rumps.
Living in forests, members of the Raccoon Family den in trees and raise their Young there. When threatened, They readily climb trees. In return, They take care of the forest. Living off of nuts, berries, and fruits from the trees, members of the Raccoon Family disperse these seeds to encourage the forests to grow. Care for the trees as They do.
Wisdom of the Raccoon Family
Being Flexible
Having a Good Grip on Things
Being a Forest Walker
Science Notes:
1. Red Pandas (Ailurus fulgens) of China have recently been included in this family. (Giant Pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) are grouped with bears.)
2. Tanuki (Raccoon Dog) (Nyctereutes procyonoides) of Asia is a candid with similar behaviors to Raccoons (Procyonidae).
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Copyright: Virginia Carper, Animal Teachers, 2008
From Universal Class, fun self-paced classes taught by me:
Finding Your Animal Teachers
Animals For Everyone: Mammals
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