Favorite otters habitats include Abrams Creek, and the Little River, Otters are nocturnal and rarely spotted by people. Weasels, minks, and spotted skunks are rare. Skunk populations fell due to diseases such as distemper, and should recover. Although one of the Park's most feared residents, skunks spray only when threatened. The raccoon is this family's only local member.
Raccoons congregate near streambanks where they feed on crayfish, salamanders, nuts, or berries.
They will eat almost anything. Local population densities vary because of disease. Raccoons will steal food from humans. They will even beg. In the 1600s beaver were common in Cades Cove.