Dens provide safety and protection from the elements. Several dens may be used at different times by the same animal. Tree cavities are a common choice, but deserted woodchuck burrows, haystacks, storm sewers, and even attics will do. Adults seem to prefer solitary lives, but may share their dens during severe winter weather, when populations are high, or in areas where food is concentrated. Raccoons do not hibernate, but may remain inactive in their dens for several days during periods of extreme cold.
Raccoons are expert climbers.
When climbing down from trees, they may go either head or tail first, and they often jump before reaching the ground. They spend a lot of time near waterways and are good swimmers. On land, they walk with a flat-footed, lumbering gait. Raccoons will fight if cornered, but prefer to escape or conceal themselves. Captive raccoons are fond of softening their food in water, but do not always do so.