Procyon cancrivorus
We have many Crab-eating Racoons at the reserve as is evidenced by the images caught on camera trap and the footprints which are very different to those of the other mammals here.
These nocturnal animals are believed to be solitary but we frequently see them on camera trap in pairs. They are adapted to live in marshy wet areas and their omnivorous diet includes crustaceans, molluscs, amphibians and insects. They resemble their northern cousins but have shorter fur, longer legs and look more athletic. Their body length is approximately 30cm with a boldly ringed tail of the same length and they weigh between 3-7 kg.
According to IUCN their population is decreasing probably due to habitat loss and some hunting but currently they are listed as ‘Least Concern’. They do not seem to adapt to living alongside humans and may well become endangered in the future.
Other threats could come from the Jaguar, Puma and possibly some of the larger eagles.
Photos courtesy of Ramon Gomez
