The hind legs of the raccoon are longer than the front legs, giving them a hunched appearance as they walk or run. Toes number five on each foot and the front feet are dexterous, allowing the raccoon to grasp and clutch items. Depending upon market demands, raccoon fur is used both as long haired fur and as a sheared and dyed short haired fur. Fur colors vary in areas. Most raccoons are a dirty blondish with darker colors of guard hairs mottling the overall appearance.
Reddish colors occur regularly in areas and some raccoons are darker colors.
Reproduction Breeding seasons for raccoons are usually in January in southern states, and February in the middle and northern states. Young males are evicted from the dens at this time and mature male raccoons search out all available females . Female raccoons are capable of breeding at 10 months of age, but males do not breed until their second year of life. Gestation is usually 63 days, and 2-4 young are common in southern states. Litters of 4-6 are more common in northern states.