RACCOONS

Raccoons get their nickname from the black markings around their eyes that look like masks. These “masks” are not just for show; they help reduce glare and improve night vision, making it easier for raccoons to see clearly in the dark while they explore.

Raccoons are nocturnal, which means they are most active at night. While other animals sleep, raccoons explore the forest, using their sharp hearing, strong sense of smell, and clever hands to find food.

A raccoon’s front paws are almost like tiny hands. They can grab, twist, and open almost anything, even jars and doors. Their fingers are so sensitive that they can tell what something is just by feeling it in the dark.

Raccoons are often seen dipping food in water. It looks like they are washing it, but scientists believe they are using touch to learn more about what they are eating. At Diamante, you might see them gently rinsing a snack before taking a bite.

Raccoons eat a little bit of everything. Their diet includes fruits, crabs, eggs, frogs, insects, and even fish. This flexibility helps them survive in many environments, from beaches to forests.

Don’t let their size fool you, raccoons are excellent climbers! Their strong claws and flexible feet let them scale trees, rocks, and even fences with ease. When they feel threatened, they often climb high to stay safe and look around.

A raccoon’s tail helps with balance and communication. The black and gray rings make it easy for other raccoons to recognize each other, and tail movements show emotions such as curiosity or excitement.

Raccoons have a large vocabulary of sounds. They can chirp, growl, purr, and whistle. Each sound carries meaning, such as a warning, a call for a friend, or a sign of happiness.

Raccoons are incredibly smart! They can unlock latches, open doors, and remember solutions to problems for years. Once they learn how to get to food, they never forget.

Adult raccoons usually prefer to live alone. They spend the night exploring and the day resting in hollow trees or cozy dens. Only mothers with babies share their space until the young are ready to explore.

Raccoons are experts at fitting in anywhere. From forests and beaches to city parks, their clever minds and curious paws help them find food, make cozy homes, and live comfortably alongside people.

Raccoons are native to Costa Rica and can be found throughout the country, from beaches to forests. They help keep nature in balance by eating insects, small animals, and fallen fruit, which controls pests and recycles nutrients back into the soil.