Instead of sharp teeth for cutting flesh, the teeth of the raccoon have low rounded cusps for crushing, fitting the animal for an omnivorous diet. The bony palate extends back noticeably beyond the last molars. This is also true in some mustelids , but the have only one upper molar on each side, whereas the raccoon has two. The raccoon prefers wooded areas, especially along streams and near lakes where large hollow tress are present. This primarily nocturnal animal on occasion is seen abroad during the daytime.
Raccoons prefer hollow trees for their dens.
They are omnivorous in their diet, eating a great variety of foods including nuts, fruits, grains, insects, crayfish, frogs, and bird eggs. During the cold winter months, raccoons go into a partial hibernation either alone or in groups, coming out on warm days. The gestation period is about sixty-three days. When about two months old, the young accompany the mother on her excursions for food and may either remain with her through the year or disperse for a distance of several miles from the home den during the first fall. When caught by a dog it sometimes utters a snarling cry, from rage or pain.