🦝 Raccoon

The masked mischief-maker of the neighborhood. Raccoons have astonishingly dexterous front paws that leave prints looking a lot like tiny human hands.

2–3 in wide (front paw slightly smaller than hind). Five long, finger-like toes on both front and hind feet. Front and hind tracks are different shapes and sizes. Claw marks usually visible at the toe tips. Often found in pairs, front beside hind.

Woodlands, wetlands, suburbs, storm drains, anywhere near water and food. Across most of North America and increasingly in cities worldwide.

Nocturnal — most active from dusk until a few hours before dawn

Omnivore: crayfish, fruit, eggs, insects, and whatever your trash can offers

A raccoon's paws have roughly four times more sensory receptors than its back feet, so it 'sees' with its hands.