Perhaps the earliest reference in literature to the raccoon was by Captain John Smith in 1612. He described it as a beast the Indians called the Aroughcun, which resembles the badger but lives in trees as squirrels do. Life History Raccoons living in captivity have been known to live as long as 15 years, but their life span is much shorter in the wild. In the north, they are heavier, weighing as much as 30 pounds. They den in hollow trees, logs, or holes in rocky ledges.
Mature animals breed once a year in early spring.
The gestation period is 9 to 10 weeks. Litters average four young each, but vary from two to six. The young are blind for 3 weeks, remain in the den for 2 months, and leave the parents the following spring. Food Habits Raccoons generally feed at night along streams and around swamps, lakes, and marshes. Raccoons like sweet foods and drinks, yet avoid salt.