Japanese Raccoon Dog

## Description

The Japanese raccoon dog (Nyctereutes viverrinus), also known as the tanuki is one of two species in the genus Nyctereutes, alongside the Common raccoon dog, of which it was formerly thought to be a subspecies. Currently, it is thought to represent a distinct species. Within Japanese folklore, the tanuki has had a significant role since ancient times. The animal has also been common in Japanese art, particularly as a subject for statues.

## Appearance

The Japanese raccoon dog has shorter fur of lesser insulation value than mainland raccoon dogs. A rare, white color type can also be found. Raccoon dogs have long torsos and short legs. The tail is short, amounting to less than a third of the animal’s total length, and hangs below the tarsal joints without touching the ground. The ears are short and protrude only slightly from the fur.

## Distribution

This species can be found only in Japan where it inhabits broad-leaved evergreen forests, mixed forests, and agricultural and urban areas.

## Lifestyle

Japanese raccoon dogs usually spend time in mated pairs but some individuals may stay in a group of until they find a mate. They are mainly nocturnal, but may also be active during daylight. Japanese raccoon dogs live on the ground but they can climb trees to forage for fruits and berries, using their curved claws that are adapted to climbing. Japanese raccoon dogs communicate by growling or with groans that have pitches resembling those of domesticated cats. Like cats, they arch their back when they are trying to intimidate other animals; however, Japanese raccoon dogs assume a defensive posture similar to that of other canids, lowering their bodies and showing their bellies to submit.

## Diet

In general raccoon dogs are omnivores. They eat insects, rodents, amphibians, birds, fish, reptiles, human garbage, carrion, and eggs. They also eat fruits, nuts, and berries.

## Reproduction

Japanese raccoon dogs are monogamous which means they form pairs. Their breeding period is synchronized between females and males and lasts between February and April. A female gives birth to a litter of 4-6 pups after a gestation period that lasts for 9 weeks. Both parents look after their pups in a den for around a month, and then for another month after the pups leave the den.

## Population

### Population threats

The Japanese raccoon dog has a wide distribution in Japan and an abundant population. In Japan these animals are hunted mainly to prevent them from damaging crops; however, their fur is desired for use in calligraphy brushes and was exported chiefly to the United States before the outbreak of World War II. Japanese raccoon dogs are frequent victims of vehicle accidents though with conservative estimates of up to 370,000 Japanese raccoon dogs being killed by vehicles each year in Japan.

### Population number

The IUCN Red List and other sources don’t provide the number of the Japanese raccoon dog total population size. Presently, it is not included in the IUCN Red List and its conservation status has not been evaluated. Generally, the Common raccoon dog is classified as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List, and its numbers today are stable.

## Main References

https://animalia.bio/japanese-raccoon-dog