Raccoons are medium-sized mammals native to North America. They are known for their distinctive black and white "mask" on their face and their ringed tail. Raccoons are omnivorous and opportunistic feeders, and will eat a wide variety of foods, including fruits, nuts, insects, fish, and small mammals. They are also known for their intelligence and their ability to solve problems. They are common throughout most of the US, but are considered pests in many areas due to their habit of raiding garbage cans and gardens. They can also carry diseases such as rabies.
It is generally illegal to keep a raccoon as a pet in most states in the United States. This is because raccoons are wild animals and can be carriers of diseases, such as rabies, that can be transmitted to humans. Raccoons can also be unpredictable and aggressive, and may pose a danger to people and other pets. Additionally, raccoons are protected by state and federal laws, and it is illegal to capture or keep them without proper permits. Some states have specific laws regarding raccoons and may require a permit to keep them as pets. If you are considering keeping a raccoon as a pet, it is important to check your state and local laws and obtain any necessary permits before doing so.
Permits to keep raccoons as pets are typically issued by state wildlife agencies or departments of natural resources. In the United States, each state has its own laws and regulations regarding the possession of wild animals, and the requirements for obtaining a permit can vary widely. Some states may not allow raccoons to be kept as pets at all, while others may require a permit, proof of vaccinations, and compliance with specific caging requirements.
In general, it's not recommended to keep raccoons as pets, as they are wild animals that can be unpredictable and dangerous, and may carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans. Additionally, raccoons are not domesticated animals and they may not adapt well to captivity. It's important to check with the local laws and regulations before considering keeping a raccoon as pet.