Raccoon

Procyon lotor

The raccoon is a highly adaptable omnivore and skilled climber native to North America. After animals escaped or were released from fur farms during the 20th century, raccoons spread widely across Europe.

Raccoons have one of the most highly developed tactile senses the animal kingdom. Their extremely sensitive front paws are covered by a layer of skin that softens in water, greatly increasing their sensitivity and allowing them to locate food precisely even in murky water. Fine sensory hairs above their claws even help them detect objects before touching them. Their distinctive black facial mask reduces distracting glare and improves vision, particularly at night. It is also presumed to facilitate communication between conspecifics.