io8] 



Animals in the Wild 



for a roomy pen, it is possible to keep a raccoon in captivity success- 

 fullythough not all raccoons lend themselves to a domestic 

 routine. 



Not a Finicky Eater: The raccoon relishes many different kinds of 

 food. It prowls the woods at night, raiding birds' and squirrels' 

 nests for babies, eggs, or even adults. The black markings across 

 the raccoon's face, suggestive of a bandit's mask, seem most appro- 

 priate for such nighttime excursions! The raccoon enjoys fish, 

 catching them by a nimble technique which involves lying in wait 

 at the edge of a stream and hooking out with its paw to seize 

 victims that swim within reach. It also pounces on bugs and 

 reptiles, and enjoys all kinds of fruits and vegetables. 



Raccoons have a fascinating way of using their front paws as 

 hands. If a raccoon is allowed in a house it must be watched closely, 

 as it can open latches and will unhesitatingly try to climb on any- 

 thing at all. The curiosity of this animal is boundless. 



"THE BLACK-MASKED UTTIE BEAR" 



This is the name the American Indians gave the raccoon in their stories. Centuries 

 ago they learned to admire the raccoon's ingenuity, curiosity, and genial play- 

 fulness. The raccoon eats a large variety of animals, catching them with ap- 

 propriately versatile techniques. It is said to wash all food whenever possible. 



