RACCOON

The raccoon is as representative of America today as in the first days of Jamestown when John Smith wrote this description of Powhatan: "He was hung with manie chaynes of great pearles about his neck and covered with a great covering of raccoon skins and all the tails hanging by." In our time the raccoon frequents the waterways, forests and even residential areas in great numbers. His masked face and ringed tail are familiar to housewives and children as well as hunters and trappers who seek him in the winter for his rich pelt.

The raccoon will weigh up to thirty pounds and reach a length of thirty inches. He is a desperate fighter when cornered and can drown a dog in deep water. He travels chiefly by night; during the day he sleeps in an abandoned squirrel's nest or hollow tree. Rodents, birds, eggs, frogs, fish and wild fruits are popular foods for this bright eyed member of the panda family. Sweet corn is a favorite item in season; two coons can wreck a small patch of corn in just a few nights.

The Algonquin Indians called the animal "arakunem" meaning "he who scratches with his hands." The raccoon is adept at using its front feet to open clams or other shell fish. Near water, he will wash his food before eating, thus earning a reputation for extreme cleanliness.