General Overview
The Procyonidae family, commonly known as raccoons and their relatives, is a group of small to medium-sized mammals native to the Americas. This family includes raccoons, coatis, kinkajous, olingos, olinguitos, and ringtails. Procyonids are intelligent, adaptable omnivores that thrive in a variety of habitats—from tropical rainforests to urban environments. Their agility, curiosity, and dexterous forepaws make them well-known and often endearing members of the mammalian world.
Appearance
Members of the Procyonidae family generally have slender to stocky bodies, pointed snouts, and long, bushy tails, often marked with distinctive rings. Body size ranges from the small ringtail (Bassariscus astutus), about 30–40 cm long, to the larger white-nosed coati (Nasua narica), which can exceed 1.2 meters including the tail. Raccoons (Procyon lotor) are easily recognized by their grayish fur and characteristic black “mask” across the eyes. Kinkajous (Potos flavus) and olingos are more arboreal, with prehensile tails adapted for life in the trees.
Diet
Procyonids are omnivorous and opportunistic feeders. Their diets include fruits, nuts, insects, small vertebrates, eggs, and human refuse. Raccoons are famous for their adaptability, foraging both on land and in water, often washing or manipulating food with their sensitive, hand-like paws. Coatis use their long snouts to dig for insects, while kinkajous primarily feed on fruit and nectar, acting as pollinators in tropical ecosystems.
Habitat
Procyonids occupy a wide range of habitats across North, Central, and South America, including forests, deserts, mountains, and urban areas. Arboreal species such as kinkajous and olingos are most common in tropical rainforests, whereas raccoons and coatis are often found in more open or mixed environments. Their adaptability to human presence has allowed some species, particularly raccoons, to become common in suburban and city landscapes.
Behavior
Members of the Procyonidae family are generally nocturnal and highly intelligent. Many species display complex problem-solving skills and use their dexterous paws to manipulate objects and open containers. Social behavior varies widely: raccoons are mostly solitary, coatis are gregarious and live in female-led bands, and kinkajous often form loose social networks. Most procyonids are excellent climbers and swimmers. Breeding seasons vary by species, but parental care is typically provided by the female, who raises the young alone. Communication includes vocalizations, scent marking, and body language.
