Species · GBIF taxon 9518324
Procyon cancrivorus
procyon cancrivorusAlso known as Southern Raccoon, South American Raccoon, Aguará Popé, Crab-eating Mapache
Crab-eating raccoons are sleek, short-furred omnivores perfectly adapted for life along tropical waterways and mangrove swamps. Unlike their northern cousins, they possess specialized, unretractable claws designed for digging up crustaceans and cracking open tough shells. They lead solitary, nocturnal lives, using their highly sensitive forepaws to forage underwater without needing to see their prey.
NocturnalSemi-aquaticSolitary
Licensed referenceMelisa Banchero / CC BY-SA 4.0 · cc-by-sa
- diet
- Omnivorous, feeding on crabs, shellfish, insects, frogs, and seasonal fruits
- family
- Procyonidae
- threats
- Habitat loss, water pollution, and hunting for fur or pet trade
- life Span
- 10 to 14 years in the wild
LC
Capable of a defensive bite or scratch if cornered; observe from a safe distance.
Equipped with sharp teeth and strong claws that can inflict deep wounds if they feel threatened or cornered.
Never approach, corner, or attempt to touch; back away slowly if one displays defensive postures like growling.- Look near water: Search muddy banks and shorelines at dawn or dusk for their distinctive hand-like tracks.
- Keep your distance: Avoid cornering or attempting to feed them, as they can defend themselves aggressively.
- Secure food: Keep campsites and trash secured when staying near their marshy habitats.