Description

The Guadeloupe raccoon, better known as the “raccoon,” was long considered an endemic species, earning it the status of emblem for the Guadeloupe National Park. However, this small nocturnal mammal was actually introduced during the colonial period. Originally from North America, it measures about 80 cm in length on average and is solitary.

It is an omnivorous predator, feeding on both animals and plants, including insects, amphibians, fish, aquatic invertebrates, small mammals, and earthworms. Its most notable behavior is washing its food in ponds or streams before eating it.

Although its characteristic black mask and bushy, ringed tail are appealing, this invasive exotic species has spread to almost every part of the world. As an omnivore, insatiable forager, and skilled hunter of fish and crayfish, the Guadeloupe raccoon is considered a subspecies of the North American raccoon (Procyon lotor Linnaeus) or, according to some experts, a separate island-evolved variant; opinions differ on this point.

Habitat

The raccoon is not particularly shy and can sometimes be seen near human dwellings. In Guadeloupe, it is ubiquitous, present in almost all habitats, though it prefers humid wooded areas and places with easy access to water, such as the heart of the tropical forest in Basse-Terre.

Threats

Although its theoretical lifespan is around 15 years, raccoons often die much younger. Major threats include pesticide poisoning, traps set by hunters, attacks by stray dogs, predation by raptors, and vehicle collisions.