The raccoon is a highly adaptable and widespread mammal, primarily nocturnal and possessing extraordinary dexterity. As true omnivores, raccoons maintain a flexible diet of both plant and animal matter. Raccoons are well-equipped to hunt and forage for aquatic prey, meaning they do consume fish.
Aquatic Prey: More Than Just Fish
Fish are a standard component of a wild raccoon’s diet, especially for those inhabiting areas with easy access to shallow water bodies. They generally target smaller, slower-moving species that are easier to ambush or capture in confined spaces. This focus on accessibility is a hallmark of their opportunistic feeding style.
The aquatic menu extends beyond fish, incorporating a variety of invertebrates and amphibians. Crayfish are a particularly significant food source, often consumed in large quantities during the summer months. Raccoons also readily prey upon frogs, salamanders, and their eggs near the water’s edge. They will also consume mollusks, such as clams and snails, and the eggs of turtles found buried in sandy banks.
Foraging Behavior and Water Habitats
A raccoon’s ability to successfully forage in water is directly linked to the anatomy of its front paws. These paws are remarkably sensitive, featuring a high density of sensory receptors that allow the animal to identify objects purely by touch. A large area of the raccoon’s cerebral cortex is dedicated to processing this tactile information, making their hands exceptional sensory tools.
This sense of touch is enhanced when the paws are wet, which is an adaptation for probing underwater in murky conditions. The raccoon wades into shallow water, using its paws to systematically feel along the bottom for hidden prey, a technique sometimes referred to as “dousing.” This tactile searching allows them to hunt effectively at night without relying on vision. Consequently, raccoons gravitate toward riparian and coastal habitats where this foraging method is most productive.
The Raccoon’s Diverse Omnivorous Diet
While aquatic foraging is specialized, the raccoon’s overall diet is highly varied. The bulk of their food intake shifts seasonally and depends heavily on local availability. During the spring and early summer, their diet often focuses on protein-rich invertebrates like insects, grubs, and worms.
As summer progresses into autumn, raccoons transition to consuming substantial amounts of plant matter to build up fat reserves for winter. This includes fruits, such as berries, grapes, and apples, alongside nuts like acorns and walnuts. Their adaptability is also visible in urban and suburban environments, where they consume human-related food waste, including unsecured garbage and pet food left outdoors. This willingness to eat virtually anything allows them to thrive in nearly every environment they inhabit.